Infrastructure projects work best when the communities served and impacted by proposed investments are engaged and informed early and effectively in the planning process. Visual renderings and data-driven maps explaining proposed works are a tool long used by the private sector to guide discussion about future outcomes with community stakeholders. But local governments typically lack the resources to produce accurate, realistic renderings of committed infrastructure projects—let alone multiple possible designs. Generative AI, however, now offers a fast-expanding array of tools for creating photorealistic renderings and thematic maps that portray multiple options, opening new possibilities for planning and public engagement. This session will explore how urban planners and community advocates are harnessing these new capabilities to engage community stakeholders earlier and more effectively, to improve infrastructure projects and consolidate support as they seek federal funding.

Speakers:

• Emily Royall, Smart City Administrator, City of San Antonio, Texas
• Ashley Louie, Chief Technology Officer, BetaNYC
• Damiano Cerrone, Co–Founder, UrbanistAI