The Intelligent Communities of the Year represent models of economic and social transformation in the 21st Century. They are not the most advanced technology centers, the most wired cities or the fastest growing economies in the world. Instead, each exemplifies best practices in broadband deployment and use, workforce development, innovation, digital inclusion and advocacy that offer lessons to regions, cities, towns and villages around the world. They are charting new paths to lasting prosperity for their citizens, businesses and institutions.

The city of Riverside is selected as one of the Top Seven Intelligent Communities in 2011. It was commented as being a role model for the world's best practices in creating competitive local economies and vibrant societies in today's hyper-competitive global economy, which broadband communications is increasingly linking into a dynamic whole. In the "broadband economy," adaptability outweighs legacy, skills rather than resources are the keys to the future, and innovation, not location, creates a competitive advantage.

Establish the City of Riverside as the innovation center of the Inland Empire to attract new high technology businesses, incubate new start up technology companies, create technology jobs through collaboration with local businesses and education institutions, and provide computers and internet access to every citizen, includes E-waste, Digital Inclusion, Tenant Improvement, Free City-wide Wi-Fi.

We have much to be proud of: the preservation of Riverside's historic downtown architecture; the independence of the public utility system; the commitment that the City will receive 50% of its power from renewable resources by 2013; the SmartRiverside program that provides computers to low-income residents and free wi-fi to most of the City; and recent investments in infrastructure, such as Renaissance Riverside (a multi-billion dollar program improving roads, parks and cultural attractions). Much like the City's founders, Riverside’s civic and social leaders have made strategic investments that today are paying off and increasing the quality of life for all who live here. To seize our destiny, the city of Riverside is set to focus on 11 strategies for improvement: Economy, Workforce, Learning, Healthcare, Green, Entertainment, Places, Recreation, Creativity, Community, and Our Story.

Riverside Renaissance is a $1.57 billion investment in Riverside’s future, making it the most ambitious public investment program in Riverside’s history. Approved by the City Council in late 2006, Riverside Renaissance is responsible for improving traffic flow; replacing aging water, sewer, and electric infrastructure; and expanding and improving police, fire, parks, library, and other community facilities that enhance the general quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors. This aggressive program anticipates completing more projects in five years than were completed over the last 30. Riverside Renaissance will ensure Riverside’s position as the capital city of the Inland Empire.