Assistance is a click away: BConnected smartphone app continues to grow in popularity
“Residents across the city can request services simply by pulling out their smartphone. And the request will automatically be forwarded directly to the person who can assist them.” – Mayor Bill Finch
Bridgeport, Conn. (April 7, 2015) – A new national research study from Pew Research shows that 40 percent of Americans use their smartphones to access government services.
“Here in Bridgeport, we’re going one step further through the BConnected app,” said Mayor Bill Finch. “Residents across the city can request services simply by pulling out their smartphone. And the request will automatically be forwarded directly to the person who can assist them.”
The new research study by Pew Charitable Trusts titled, “U.S. Smartphone Use in 2015,” concluded that an increasing number of individuals navigate their electronic worlds primarily from their handheld devices, and that is particularly true in urban centers and with younger users.
“A majority of smartphone owners use their phone to follow along with breaking news, and to share and be informed about happenings in their local community,” the study concludes.
In an effort to make requests for government services more “user-friendly,” Mayor Finch launched the BConnected smartphone app. Residents can report a wide range of requests or concerns from their phone – ranging from a pothole or a traffic concern to a request for a free smoke detector or a free rain barrel.
The city has experienced a steady growth every year since 2012 in people using the BConnected app.
Here are the BConnected usage numbers:
- 2012 – 314
- 2013 – 895
- 2014 – 1137
“This shows BConnected is growing every year. From 2012 through last year, usage on smartphones has increased by 262% increase,” said Mayor Finch. “So, if you want the city to come install free smoke detectors in your house, we are only a click away. You are a tap away from requesting a free rain barrel through the Conservation Corps.”
Residents also can report a pothole, speeding concerns, request recycling bin and even submit suggestions to the Mayor, City Council and city agencies.
BConnected services can be accessed three different ways: 1) Download the BConnected App on your smartphone, 2) Visit BConnected online at www.bridgeportct.gov/bconnected, or 3) Call the BConnected hotline at 203-576-1311.
“BConnected is one-stop-shopping for our residents. It helps us all stay connected and gets the information quickly to the city department that can help,” said Mayor Finch. “This is one way we’re working to increase efficiency and solve problems for residents as quickly as possible.”