Istanbul, Turkey – Today, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency announced the awarding of a grant to support the modernization and transformation of the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality’s transportation network. USTDA’s assistance funds a pilot project to improve roadway congestion and optimize public transportation in Turkey’s largest city.

“USTDA is committed to supporting Turkey’s smart city goals, and this partnership with Istanbul will have a definite impact on one of the world’s largest and most dynamic cities,” said Todd Abrajano, Chief Operating Officer and Head of Agency. “Through USTDA’s U.S.-Turkey Next Generation Cities Initiative, we are engaging with our Turkish partners, developing world-class infrastructure solutions and creating unique business opportunities for U.S. industry.”

USTDA’s grant will support the installation of an artificial intelligence software analytics platform to evaluate Istanbul’s road traffic, optimize public transportation, manage traffic incidents and adapt to changing patterns. Combined with other sensor and networking technology, the project’s data analytics tool, which will be provided by North Carolina-based SAS, will create a real-time picture of Istanbul’s traffic conditions.

“The U.S. Mission to Turkey is committed to supporting smart city development,” said U.S. Ambassador to Turkey David M. Satterfield. “USTDA’s early stage project preparation tools are providing critical support to Turkish cities as they transform to better serve their citizens. We are delighted to partner with the city of Istanbul as it reimagines its transportation network.”

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu added, “I believe the data analytics platform granted by USTDA will make significant contributions to the digital transformation of Istanbul. This valuable cooperation will benefit all Istanbulites, and our good relations will only strengthen in the future.”

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The U.S. Trade and Development Agency helps companies create U.S. jobs through the export of U.S. goods and services for priority development projects in emerging economies.  USTDA links U.S. businesses to export opportunities by funding project preparation and partnership building activities that develop sustainable infrastructure and foster economic growth in partner countries.

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