From Washington, a '311 for Cities': the new National Resource Network aims to help local governments find the experts and information they need.

• Author: Kleiman, Neil
• Position: Commentary

Consumers everywhere have a voracious demand for customized data. In just the past few years, local governments have gotten remarkably good at responding. The growing proliferation of local 311 systems and "Where is my bus?"-type apps allows citizens to quickly--if not immediately--get the information and guidance they need.

Remarkably, however, local governments do not have access to the same kinds of organizational tools, platforms, or information for their own use. Cities confronted with a range of persistent challenges--from pension liabilities to failing school systems--often lack the means to consult with the right experts or the time to identify the federal programs, best practices, or foundation initiatives that could help them.

In an effort to provide this kind of guidance for cities, the Obama administration recently announced the launch of the National Resource Network (at http://www.nationalresourcenetwork. org/en/home). A pilot program with an initial $10 million award from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the initiative aims to be a one-stop resource for technical, policy and financial assistance for local governments.

The network will employ a distinct approach. Rather than starting with a bold new theory of urban change, it will be listening to what cities need first and then customizing the right action-based solution for them. The assistance will encompass three approaches:

On-the-Ground Assistance: Over a three-year period, the network will provide direct assistance to dozens of cities. Rather than a typical consultancy that is provided by one group, the network will form teams of assistance providers based on what cities truly need help with. Along with New York University and the International City/County Management Association, the leadership of the network includes non-profit and for-profit leaders with expertise across economic development, community development, and public budgeting. Network teams will tackle a broad range of challenges related to economic turnaround.

Policy Assistance...