A New Era for Urban Services
One of the activities of the MetaCity initiative is the creation of a 3D visualization—or digital twin—for the Miljkovići Industrial Zone. This transformative technology bridges the gap between virtual and physical spaces, offering an unprecedented tool for urban and industrial management. Unlike static planning models of the past, the digital twin integrates real-time Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data and operational insights to simulate scenarios, optimize resources, and inform strategic decisions. Its specific capabilities include:
- Crafting detailed, conceptual 3D visualizations that mirror the industrial zone’s spatial and operational dynamics.
- Integrating GIS and real-time data to enable precise simulations and predictive analytics.
- Highlighting key industrial processes to empower stakeholders with actionable insights.
- Ensuring public accessibility through a mobile application, promoting transparency and trust.
These elements transform the Miljkovići Industrial Zone into a living, interactive system that benefits industrial operators, policymakers, and residents alike.
Collaboration as a Catalyst
Central to the MetaCity initiative is the collaborative spirit fostered by the URBACT Local Group (ULG) in Mostar. This multi-stakeholder platform brings together representatives from government, academia, civil society, and the private sector to co-create solutions tailored to the city’s needs.
Recent survey results from ULG members reflect strong alignment and shared enthusiasm. Stakeholders see the ULG as a hub for innovation, where knowledge-sharing and participatory decision-making drive progress. The collaborative ethos is a cornerstone of the project’s success. As one ULG member noted, “MetaCity is not just about technology; it’s about people coming together to solve problems and seize opportunities.” Survey responses of the ULG Mostar members underscore this spirit of partnership, with members rating their cooperation an impressive 9.25 out of 10. This strong alignment ensures that the digital twin and other MetaCity initiatives are not only technologically advanced but also grounded in the needs of the community.
Empowering Citizens Through Technology
While technology is the backbone of the MetaCity project, its ultimate goal is to serve the people of Mostar. By incorporating tools like digital twins and virtual applications, the project empowers citizens to engage more deeply with urban planning processes.
For citizens, this means greater transparency and an opportunity to contribute to decisions that shape their environment. For city officials, it fosters trust and demonstrates a commitment to accountability. As one ULG member remarked, “When people see how their city works, they feel empowered to participate in making it better.” This approach aligns with broader European priorities, such as fostering inclusion, enhancing digital literacy, and addressing inequalities. By integrating these principles into its strategies, Mostar positions itself as a leader in people-centric urban development.
Looking Ahead: Building on Momentum
MetaCity is not a project that ends with implementation; it is a vision that evolves. The priorities outlined by the Mostar ULG highlight the initiative’s forward-looking approach:
- Designing local frameworks that support digital transformation and sustainable urban growth.
- Equipping residents, particularly marginalized groups, with the skills to thrive in a digital economy.
- Collaborating with regional and international stakeholders to share best practices and resources.
Through these efforts, Mostar aims to set an example of how smaller cities can leverage technology to address their unique challenges while contributing to the global movement toward smarter, greener, and more equitable urban environments.
MetaCity project in Mostar is a testament to the transformative power of collaboration, technology, and vision. By blending cutting-edge technologies with a people-centric approach, the initiative is reshaping how cities of similar size can address their unique challenges. Mostar’s journey with MetaCity serves as a beacon for other cities navigating the complexities of digital transformation. It reminds us that even in an era of rapid technological advancement, the true essence of progress lies in the connections we build—between people, communities, and their shared aspirations for a better tomorrow.
Article by Mostar