DeMaio Introduces Smartphone App to Report Potholes

Councilman Carl DeMaio on Thursday introduced the San Diego 311 smartphone app that allows residents to take pictures of potholes, broken streetlights, etc. and send word to city officials.

"San Diego 311 gives citizens an easy, one-stop way to access key city services," DeMaio said in announcing the app Thursday. "It's time for city government to catch up with modern technology and embrace new ways to serve our citizens."

DeMaio, who represents District 5, discussed the free app during his . At the time, he said he was spending about $9,000 from his council office budget on the project. The app was created through a contract with CitySourced, which has worked with other cities on similar projects.

Residents can allow the app to use their current location through GPS to pinpoint the spot of the issue. Users can also search by ZIP code or address to find pictures and information about issues already reported. A map highlights red points where issues have been noted. Tapping the points brings up more information about the issue, including what type of device was used to take the picture.

San Diego 311 works with iPhones, Androids and Blackberrys.

During a "Twitter forum" in February, DeMaio was asked why this app is needed when similar apps already exist.

He responded, "our app covers far more issues and services and will be integrated into the city's CRM system. our app also is designed for ALL smart phones, not just I-phone. our app also does not rely on a third party intermediary who may or may not know which dept handles issue. we route directly."

Residents can report a number of issues, including:

• Abandoned vehicles, shopping carts and bicycles.
• Dead animals to be removed.
• Flooding.
• Graffiti.
• Illegal dumping/trash.
• Overgrown plants and trees.
• Broken sidewalks.
• Leaking fire hydrants.

Links explaining how to download the apps are available on DeMaio's council website.

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