Innovation is at the heart of everything in Arlington. Whether it is handling large-scale development projects or supporting its residents and businesses, Arlington is a front-runner.
Citibot is Arlington’s newest inventive solution. Arlington is the second and largest city in Texas to implement Citibot. The text-service is a one-year pilot program funded by the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation.
Citibot will streamline communication between the city and the community. The interactive chatbot replies to questions with links to relevant information from the City of Arlington’s website.
You don’t even have to download anything to use the service. To use Citibot, text “hello” to 817-409-4110. You can also use keywords, such as recycling pickup or street light, to report an issue by street address. After the city resolves a report, Citibot will follow up to let people know.
“People’s expectations of high-quality customer service are ever-increasing,” said Bratton Riley, Citibot’s co-founder and CEO. “Cities like Arlington are leading the way by delivering powerful solutions to maximize efficiency and enhance access to information and vital services.”
The implementation of Citibot complements Arlington’s history of innovative solutions. In 2019, Arlington became the first city in Texas to achieve the What Works Cities Certification, a national standard of excellence in city services and innovation.
“We’re always looking for ways to put technology to work and offer our residents easier ways to report and resolve issues in their neighborhoods,” said Jay Warren, director of Communication and Legislative Affairs for the City of Arlington. “With Citibot, one text is all it takes to streamline the reporting process for residents, allowing them to make The American Dream City a better place to live, learn, work and play.”
Citibot is also a win for the business community. Texting “business” to the chat tool instantly connects users with the city’s resources. Information such as how to start a business, organizations that support entrepreneurship and licensing requirements are more accessible than ever.