An Urban Tech Wish List

If you live in a noted "smart" city like Boston or Copenhagen, or any place interested in adopting technologies to save money and improve the functionality of public services, Drell's list, which runs the gamut from specific innovations pioneered by individual cities to generic best practices, may supply some solid ideas for how to improve city living. Examples include:

• "Apps that let users 'adopt' city property -- trash cans, call boxes, trees, fire hydrants, etc. -- so the city doesn't have to spend money sending personnel to tend to them. Boston and Honolulu already have something similar in place, through Code for America, and these projects make citizens feel more invested in their neighborhood."

• "App or social media-based emergency alert and crisis response systems -- every citizen should have access to vital information. Whether it's an alert about a crime that just happened or advice for a storm approaching the city."

• "A city guide app, with information about museums, parks, landmarks, public art, restaurants and real-time traffic data. These apps, like the ones in Baltimore, Ottawa, Charlotte and New Orleans, help citizens and tourists alike improve their experience in the city."