Riverside County enlists ‘hackers’ for better communication

Riverside County wants to work with computer programmers to develop and design applications using public data. A ‘Hackathon’ contest will take place Saturday, June 28.

Officials said the goal is to make information more readily available to the public and to give programmers and software developers an opportunity to build new apps to improve communication between residents and the county.

Organizers announced the ‘Hackathon’ on Monday, which is being called ‘RivCodes’. The competition is the first of its kind for Riverside County.

‘RivCodes’ will take place at the Riverside County Innovation Center, located at 3450 14th St. in Riverside. Officials said the competition begins at 9 a.m. Saturday and runs continuously until 12 p.m. Sunday.

Programmers will be given data sets to use in building their applications. Participants will then have 24 hours to develop ideas and come up with an application that improves quality of life through technology, officials said in a release.

Applications developed at similar events, in places such as Los Angeles and Chicago, have helped make it easier for residents to find services online, submit crime tips or report potholes.

After participants finish their design and development work, a panel will judge the programs and winning entries will receive prizes. People of all ages and backgrounds are invited to join the event, organizers said.

‘RivCodes’ is being hosted by the Riverside County Information Technology Department and SmartRiverside. Anyone interested in helping sponsor the event can call (951) 955-3700.

Registration and additional information