The role of local governments on urban infrastructures and facilities in smart cities

With the continuous increase in urban populations, the resulting infrastructure challenges, the new trends emerging from the widespread use of information and communication technologies, the search for alternative resources driven by the rapid depletion of natural resources, and the pollution problems caused by urban crowding, along with, in some cases, the desire for innovation, differentiation, and appeal, city administrators have increasingly turned towards smart city applications in recent years. This development and transformation have also impacted our country, leading to the rise of such applications in various cities. This thesis evaluates the state of smart city applications in the city of Izmir, aiming to contribute to the formation of a vision that will guide the city into the future. Within this context, two surveys were designed in light of the literature. The first survey targeted citizens, who are both the users of existing smart city applications and potential beneficiaries of future ones, while the second survey was directed at the technical staff within local governments, who are responsible for addressing these needs. The survey results indicate that the perspectives of citizens and technical administrators on the needs and necessary actions are closely aligned. However, it was concluded that the city is still in the early stages of progress, and smart city applications must be implemented in a rational, scientific, and cost-effective manner, avoiding populist approaches. Additionally, certain fundamental infrastructure issues need to be addressed prior to the full realization of smart city initiatives.