The Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) and US Ignite have announced that the City of San José, California, has been awarded a $260,000 grant from TMF to explore advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) and computer vision technologies to enhance local traffic safety. This initiative aims to leverage these technologies to automatically detect road obstructions and hazards impacting vulnerable road users like cyclists and pedestrians.
Issues such as illegal parking in bike lanes and the dumping of large objects, including mattresses and furniture, pose significant risks to motorcyclists, bikers, pedestrians, scooter riders, and individuals using wheelchairs or other assistive mobility devices.San José will assess how to responsibly use AI and computer vision to quickly identify and manage obstructions in bike lanes in order to address these challenges, while ensuring the software protects public privacy.
The goal of the AI-powered solution is to improve service delivery by reallocating staff resources from identifying problems to resolving them. By enhancing the City’s ability to detect and address roadway issues, officials anticipate achieving long-term safety improvements for walkers, cyclists, and other micromobility commuters in San José and beyond.
“Applying AI to advance road safety embodies our commitment to creating and ensuring mobility for all, fostering active mobility, and improving safety,” commented 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. We are excited to share our know-how and collaborate with San José to make roads safer and higher performing for all.”
“Leveraging AI to keep our bike lanes clear not only enhances public safety but also exemplifies San José’s commitment to innovative solutions,” added Mayor Matt Mahan. “We are excited to work with Toyota Mobility Foundation and US Ignite to make our city safer for all road users.”
“I am proud of the City of San José’s Information Technology Department for advancing our Transportation and Aviation Services City Service Area,” remarked City Manager Jennifer Maguire. “This grant enables us to continue creating meaningful impact in San José by using AI technology to enhance roadway safety in our communities and all who live in our great city.”
