Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the world, and the field of urban planning is no exception. AI is being used to develop new tools and techniques that can help planners create more sustainable, equitable, and livable cities.

One of the most promising applications of AI in urban planning is in the design of neighborhoods. AI can be used to analyze data on everything from demographics to traffic patterns to create detailed models of neighborhoods. This information can then be used to identify potential problems and design solutions that can improve the quality of life for residents.

For example, AI can be used to identify areas that are at risk of flooding or crime. Planners can then use this information to develop strategies to mitigate these risks. AI can also be used to identify areas that are underserved by public transportation or green space. Planners can then use this information to develop plans to improve access to these essential services.

In addition to identifying problems, AI can also be used to generate creative solutions. For example, AI can be used to design new street layouts that reduce traffic congestion or create new parks that provide residents with more green space.

AI is still in its early stages of development, but it has the potential to revolutionize the way we design neighborhoods. By automating tasks, improving decision-making, and creating new tools and techniques, AI can help planners create more sustainable, equitable, and livable cities

Here are some examples of how AI is being used to design neighborhoods:

• In 2018, the city of Barcelona used AI to design a new neighborhood that is expected to be 100% energy self-sufficient.
• In 2019, the company Sidewalk Labs used AI to develop a plan for a new neighborhood in Toronto that is designed to be walkable, bikeable, and transit-oriented.
• In 2020, the company Palantir is using AI to help planners in the city of Los Angeles identify areas that are at risk of wildfire.

As AI continues to develop, we can expect to see even more innovative and transformative applications in the design of neighborhoods. AI has the potential to help us create cities that are more sustainable, equitable, and livable for all.

Even though here at Howell Engineering, we still use real-life humans to do all of our engineering and plan to do so for a while, don’t tell anyone, but I did use AI to write this newsletter for me....