Delray Beach Honored with 2025 Digital Cities Award for Expanding Innovation, Accessibility, and Smart Government Services

Delray Beach, Fla. – November 18, 2025 – The City of Delray Beach has once again been recognized as a leader in municipal innovation, earning a 2025 Digital Cities Award from the Center for Digital Government (CDG). This annual survey celebrates cities that elevate public service through modern technology, data-driven decision-making, cybersecurity leadership, and a commitment to digital equity.

“Being recognized again as a Digital City reflects our deliberate investment in people, processes, and technology,” said Jay Stacy, Chief Technology Officer. “This year’s accomplishments demonstrate how innovation truly serves our residents—whether by improving accessibility, modernizing daily interactions with city services, or strengthening the resilience of our entire digital ecosystem. We are building a smarter, safer, and more connected Delray Beach.”

This year, Delray Beach stood out to the CDG for its holistic, forward-looking digital strategy, marked by significant accomplishments in accessibility, citywide modernization, public safety, and cyber resilience.

Expanded Digital Accessibility & Modernized Resident Services

Over the past two years, Delray Beach has transformed traditionally paper-based processes into streamlined, fully online workflows through its eServices Portal, improving ease of use for businesses, residents, and visitors. The city also introduced technical strategist positions—specialists who embed with departments to ensure new technology aligns with real community needs.

The city’s digital ecosystem continues to grow through the MyDelrayBeach mobile app, CodeRED emergency alert system, the city’s comprehensive website, and a digital magazine. To better understand and serve residents, the City’s Communications Office now uses platform-specific engagement dashboards, helping measure and refine outreach in real time.

Pioneering Use of Artificial Intelligence

Delray Beach earned national attention for piloting an AI-powered virtual receptionist, launched initially to better serve a blind constituent seeking improved access at City Hall. The city is also expanding responsible AI use across departments, including the Police Department’s Real-Time Crime Center and a Public Works pilot exploring AI-driven pavement condition monitoring.

Strengthened Cybersecurity & Resilience

To safeguard residents and critical systems, Delray Beach has significantly upgraded its cybersecurity tools and implemented smart-lock physical security systems across municipal buildings. In addition, the city continues to enhance resilience by building a remote disaster recovery data center 400 miles from the primary site, ensuring crucial operations remain protected during hurricane season and other emergencies.

“These strategic investments—from accessibility tools to cyber resilience—reflect our commitment to ensuring every interaction with the City is secure, efficient, and user-friendly,” said Stacy. “Our team is proud of the meaningful progress we’ve made, and this award encourages us to continue pushing forward.”

About the Center for Digital Government

The Center for Digital Government (CDG) is a national research and advisory institute focused on technology policy and best practices in state and local government.

About the City of Delray Beach

Delray Beach is a vibrant, award-winning coastal community known for its rich history, welcoming spirit, and forward-thinking approach to innovation. USA TODAY’s 10Best named Delray Beach the #1 Best Beach in Florida for 2024 & 2025, and Atlantic Avenue—its iconic downtown corridor—was recognized as one of America’s 10 Great Shopping Streets. The city is a three-time All-America City Award winner and is ranked the 5th best city for small businesses in the U.S.Delray Beach proudly blends its storied past with a dynamic vision for the future.