This week in infrastructure and city planning, AI tools are helping cities work smarter. In the United Kingdom, a new AI system called 'Extract' will scan planning documents quickly to speed up home building projects. This tool uses Google's Gemini model to read hundreds of files in seconds, helping England's planning system catch up with modern technology.

Across the ocean in Sandy Springs, USA, city planners are using AI to deal with less government money for projects. They hired an AI expert to help with permitting and zoning work, especially after facing cuts to federal grants that pay for sidewalks and safety improvements.

Many cities now use AI for public participation too. Tools like ChatGPT help planners understand community feedback faster and in multiple languages, making it easier for residents to share ideas about city projects.