City says AI will help development, permitting approvals

After a three-month pilot program that used artificial intelligence capabilities in service of improving the permitting and development process, the city has entered into a five-year contract with Sydney-based Archistar. The contract will let the company and city focus on pre-check assessments for single-family residential projects, with plans to expand to other areas. This new system aims to streamline the development process, improving speed, accuracy and transparency for applicants. Archistar’s founder, Benjamin Coorey, said in a prepared statement that the technology will reduce approval times and allow city staff to focus on complex evaluations. A second pilot, in collaboration with the International Code Council, is also underway to automate International Building Code compliance reviews.