New year, same old cities. At least until one of the billionaires hoping to build a smart city from the ground up is finally successful.

In all seriousness, though, U.S. cities are constantly evolving as they strive to become more sustainable, safe and equitable. 2024 will bring new opportunities as technology develops, policy progresses and more federal funds are doled out. But it will also present challenges, from more and bigger disasters fueled by climate change to continuing financial woes for public transit. 

2024 will inevitably surprise us somehow, but the stories below offer a glimpse at what's ahead according to city leaders, federal agencies, researchers, private-sector executives, community advocates and more.