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Microsoft inks three-year deal with Charlotte on smart city initiative

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Microsoft Corp. said Wednesday that it has entered into a three-year agreement with the city of Charlotte as part of a smart city initiative.

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Through the partnership, the city and Microsoft seek to create a hub focusing on workforce development, "internet of things" and innovation. They will launch pilot programs in five areas: upward mobility, smart transit systems, public Wi-Fi, public safety infrastructure and safer neighborhoods.

"Inspiring innovation and applying data science to make better decisions makes resident quality of life better," Charlotte City Manager Marcus Jones said in a statement. "We are excited to work with Microsoft and value their commitment to our sustainable city strategy."

One example is Wi-Fi on public buses, a move that will increase efficiency for riders but also provide internet access to underserved populations.

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