City Backs New Apps to Navigate NYC

Adventuring in local parks got a digital boost from New York City yesterday. Explore NYC Parks, a new tool that makes parks “easier to explore, discover and enjoy,” was one of the winners of the Big Apps challenge, a competition sponsored by the Economic Development Corporation.

“Technology has the power to transform our world, and with this challenge, we’re empowering the sharpest minds in tech, design and business to help solve some of the city’s toughest civic challenges,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. The apps “will help make New York City a better place to live, work, learn and play.”

Also taking home cash prizes of $20,000 to $5,000 were tools to track heating complaints, connect teachers and help low-income New Yorkers find jobs.

The Big Apps challenge is a companion to the city’s Big Ideas initiative, which highlighted several other tools to help New Yorkers navigate the urban environment. The Bike Department app lets iPhone users see not just where Citi Bike has available bikes and docks, but is supposed to “predict if one will be there when you’re ready.” Social Cyclist lets cyclists record and share their bike routes, and runs on Apple, Android and the web.  The tool also aggregates users’ data to help cities plan bike infrastructure, according to the project developers. And Reported, billed as “Yelp for NYC Taxis,” is supposed to make it easier to file complaints to the Taxi and Limousine Commission.