Flobecq Embraces Digital Transformation with Smart Streetlighting and Environmental Monitoring

Image credit: Jean-Pol Grandmont

Published on September 5, 2024

Flobecq, a small municipality in the heart of the Pays des Collines region, is embracing digitalization to enhance the quality of life for its 3,400 residents. Through innovative solutions developed by Proximus NXT and supported by the Walloon Region’s Digital Wallonia initiative, Flobecq is integrating advanced technologies to improve health, safety, mobility, and environmental monitoring. This initiative, part of the regional recovery plan, positions Flobecq at the forefront of digital transformation, using data-driven tools to tackle urban challenges and improve everyday life.

Key Technological Implementations:

1. Adaptive Lighting and Enhanced Safety: Flobecq has implemented advanced adaptive lighting systems at pedestrian crossings, using sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to automatically enhance lighting and activate visual signals when pedestrians are detected. This technology, which combines energy-efficient LED lights with renewable energy sources like wind and solar, increases pedestrian visibility and safety. Flobecq is the first municipality in Belgium to use the Omniflow autonomous lighting system, which has also been deployed in parking lots to improve safety and security.
2. Environmental and Noise Monitoring: The project includes the deployment of environmental sensors to measure air quality and sound detection sensors to monitor noise levels in residential and public areas. This real-time data collection helps local authorities identify and mitigate environmental nuisances quickly. The data is fully anonymized to protect citizen privacy, ensuring a balance between technological advancement and personal rights.
3. Data-Driven Decision Making with the Data Engine Platform: Flobecq’s new “Data Engine” platform, developed by Proximus NXT on the Azure public cloud, integrates data from various sources, including sensors, cameras, and mobile phones. This data provides valuable insights into traffic flows, parking occupancy, and visitor numbers. For example, the municipality can better manage the flow of people and vehicles during major events, enhancing both tourism and public safety. The centralized data platform improves decision-making across key areas like mobility, health, and infrastructure management.
4. Smart Benches and Public Amenities: Flobecq offers residents and visitors Belgium’s first “smart benches,” which allow users to wirelessly charge their mobile devices, enhancing the convenience of public spaces. These benches symbolize the city’s commitment to blending modern technology with everyday needs, creating a more connected and accessible environment for all.

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