AI helped to uncover missing buildings

Summary: 

The AI tool supported The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) efforts in various urban planning and public infrastructure projects.

Client: 

The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) is a partnership of government entities that collectively plan and manage resources for 4.8 million residents across seven counties in Southeast Michigan. SEMCOG’s role includes facilitating the development and maintenance of transportation systems, water and sewer services, and economic and workforce initiatives.

Problem Statement: 

SEMCOG was looking for a tool to identify unrecorded buildings in their region. This effort was part of a broader initiative to maintain an accurate and up-to-date regional buildings inventory, which is crucial for long-term urban planning and infrastructure development.

Results: 

•  3,452 previously unknown buildings were captured in two years. 
• Improved land-use policy and forecasting work, based on the present environment in 3D.

AI Solution Overview:

The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) leveraged AI from Nearmap and Ecopia AI to identify over 3,452 previously unrecorded buildings in their region.  

Using high-resolution aerial imagery and AI-based mapping technology, Nearmap helped SEMCOG integrate building footprints with existing geospatial data. This allowed SEMCOG to monitor land use changes and identify where infrastructure improvements were needed. The AI-driven analysis provided clear insights into current developments and trends, such as the shift towards constructing fewer but larger commercial buildings​ (HighQ Aerial Maps)​​​.

Additionally, Ecopia AI’s high-precision mapping data supported SEMCOG’s efforts in various urban planning and public infrastructure projects. These included stormwater and flood management, pedestrian safety, and green infrastructure planning. By mapping extensive features such as sidewalks, crosswalks, tree canopies, and other elements, Ecopia AI’s data has been instrumental in helping SEMCOG plan strategically for future developments.

References: 

1. Government Council Uncovers 3,452 Missing Buildings. https://www.nearmap.com/content/dam/nearmap/customer-stories/semcog/southeast-michigan-council-of-governments-nearmap-customer-story.pdf 
2. Nearmap reveals ‘revolutionary’ sixth-generation AI model using AWS. https://itbrief.asia/story/nearmap-reveals-revolutionary-sixth-generation-ai-model-using-aws
3. Ecopia AI Expands Relationship with SEMCOG to Deliver High-Precision Maps for Green Infrastructure and Traffic Safety Initiatives. https://www.ecopiatech.com/resources/news/ecopia-ai-expands-relationship-with-semcog-to-deliver-high-precision-maps-for-green-infrastructure-and-traffic-safety-initiatives
4. New AI Tool Lets Government Identify Objects from the Air. https://www.govtech.com/biz/new-ai-tool-lets-government-identify-objects-from-the-air.html

Industry: Public Services

Vendors: Nearmap and Ecopia AI

Client: The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG)

Publication Date: 2022