As extensive road construction endeavors persist throughout San Antonio, the city is employing a chatbot to disseminate information about a specific project. The newly introduced Talkin’ Broadway chatbot allows passersby to engage in a two-way conversation via text message or QR codes along lower Broadway, offering updates on construction progress, schedules, access to local businesses, contact information for city staff, and more in both English and Spanish.
This initiative aims to address the challenges faced by business owners and residents due to prolonged road construction, serving as part of the city’s commitment to enhance communication regarding construction projects following previous delays on the St. Mary’s Strip project. Notably, major street reconstruction projects will persist, and the chatbot, dubbed “Talkin’ Broadway,” emerges as a tool for more effective communication.
Brian Dillard, San Antonio’s Chief Innovation Officer, emphasizes its role as a “conversation starter,” fostering a closer connection between the city and its community. The city invested approximately $14,000 in a one-year contract with Hello Lamp Post for this technology. Users can interact with the chatbot by texting “Hello SA 3” to 210-802-2265.
Signage along Broadway includes QR codes and contact information for information access. The city plans to collect anonymous data on user interactions to inform technology improvements without collecting personal information. The chatbot does not employ artificial intelligence but utilizes sentiment analysis to gauge public reactions.
Part of the broader Smart Cities Roadmap, this chatbot project aligns with San Antonio’s commitment to utilizing technology and innovation to address local challenges. The completion of the $42 million lower Broadway project is anticipated by the summer, and if successful, the chatbot pilot may extend to other high-profile construction initiatives across the city, serving as a real-time information source for residents and visitors alike.
