In this episode of The Digital Executive podcast, Brian Thomas sits down with Drew Messer, CEO and co-founder of Urban SDK, to explore how geospatial AI and real-time data are transforming how local governments operate. From Drew’s early experiences in politics to launching Urban SDK after the U.S. DOT’s Smart Cities Challenge, listeners will hear how Drew’s vision led to the creation of a platform now used by over 250 municipalities across 34 states.

Drew shares the challenges that cities face with outdated infrastructure assessment methods and how Urban SDK’s data management platform replaces traditional tools like traffic counters with cost-effective, always-on data analytics. The conversation dives deep into use cases involving traffic safety, public works, and policing, highlighting how cities are making faster, evidence-based decisions that improve safety, efficiency, and budgeting.

Drew also discusses broader trends in smart city development—including Infrastructure 2.0—and how removing personal bias through data is reshaping policy-making across the public sector. The episode ends on a personal note, with Drew acknowledging the role of faith and resilience in building a fast-growing, VC-backed tech company committed to civic innovation.

#SmartCities #UrbanSDK #GeospatialAI #InfrastructureInnovation #CivicTech

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