Understanding the support for a smart city project: a people-centered approach
(A2021-93494)

AUTHORS

Ángel Herrero-Crespo, Universidad de Cantabria; Héctor San Martín, Universidad de Cantabria; María del Mar García de los Salmones, University of Cantabria

ABSTRACT

The integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) in urban management has led to the concept of “smart cities”. Despite the importance of this topic, the research on smart cities is still limited, and more theoretical background and empirical evidence are needed. Accordingly, the present study adopts a people-centric approach and examines the main factors determining the residents' support for a smart city project in their community. Based on a survey sample of 525 participants, empirical evidence demonstrates that overall attitude towards smart cities is the main factor influencing support for a specific smart city project. In addition, familiarity with smart cities is also important since it positively affects both the overall attitude toward smart cities and the equity perceptions of the specific smart city project. Innovativeness in ICT also plays a significant role because it influences familiarity, attitudes, and support. Finally, equity perceptions have a significant effect on support.