San José to employ AI to protect road users
- August 6, 2024
- William Payne
Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) has granted the City of San José, CA, $200,000 to explore use of AI and computer vision in managing urban traffic safety. The city will use these technologies to detect road obstructions affecting vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.
Illegal parking in bike lanes and dumping of large objects, such as mattresses and furniture, pose risks to motorcyclists, bikers, pedestrians, scooter riders and wheelchair users. San José hopes that AI and computer vision can identify obstructions in bike lanes automatically and quickly. The city will also explore how to ensure privacy of the public.
The grant was made to the city in conjunction with US Ignite, a nonprofit that helps communities address technology innovation challenges. US Ignite will support San José with its expertise in public safety, transportation, network communications, civic engagement, and AI.
With one million residents, San José is Northern California’s largest city and the 13th largest in the US. It is colloquially known as the Capital of Silicon Valley and has one of the highest concentrations of technology companies in the world.
The AI and computer vision initiative aligns with the San José 2025 Better Bike Plan, which prioritises safety, mode shift, and equity, as well as the Vision Zero San José initiative to eliminate traffic fatalities and severe injuries. TMF’s grant will also allow City staff to engage community-based organisations and other stakeholders on the use of AI for the public good. Moreover, officials plan to share their findings and models with partner agencies across the nation, amplifying the project’s impact.
“Applying AI to advance road safety embodies our commitment to creating and ensuring mobility for all, fostering active mobility, and improving safety,” said William Chernicoff, TMF’s Senior Manager for Global Research and Americas Projects. “For the City of San José to achieve its goal of better safeguarding vulnerable road users, people must trust the infrastructure, as reflected in its safety, security, reliability, and robustness.”
“Leveraging AI to keep our bike lanes clear not only enhances public safety but also exemplifies San José’s commitment to innovative solutions,” said Mayor Matt Mahan. “We are excited to work with Toyota Mobility Foundation and US Ignite to make our city safer for all road users.”