ABOUT

My name is Nathan Olmstead. I am a doctoral candidate at the University of Toronto and a Research Fellow at the Niagara Community Observatory. My work focuses on digital infrastructure development, urban policy, and local government.

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My current project investigates the meaning and value of real-time in the context of Canadian smart urbanism. I explore what it might mean to exchange idealizations of the real-time city for alternative and more inclusive temporalities. I investigate these themes in the context of Sidewalk Toronto, Canada's most prominent - though ultimately abandoned - foray into smart city development.

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As a member of the Niagara Community Observatory, I am exploring the relationship between regional innovation systems, economic development, and municipal policy within Niagara. Our work reviews the economic history of Niagara Region, as well as the opportunities and challenges facing Niagara today. 

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I have also worked as a consultant and advocate on projects related to environmental sustainability, responsible technology, affordable housing, and animal welfare. More recently, I have worked with organizations in Niagara Region to improve active transportation infrastructure, community wealth, and urban development. 

My work has been published in reputable journals such as Philosophy & Technology, Urban Studies, and Political Theology, and includes several public reports at the forefront of policymaking in Canada.