Cambridge accelerates new home construction with innovative AI technology

Building on its commitment to increase housing supply through the federal Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF), the City of Cambridge is introducing two transformative technologies designed to modernize development approvals and accelerate home construction.

Archistar is an AI-powered platform that helps builders, architects, and homeowners check whether their development plans meet City requirements before they apply. It will help applicants submit more complete applications and supports faster approvals.

Cambridge Digital Twin helps planners, developers, and residents visualize how new homes and developments will fit into existing neighbourhoods before construction begins by using a detailed three-dimensional virtual representation of the city in an interactive environment.

Together, these technologies aim to improve the applicant experience, and support Cambridge's commitment to building complete, connected communities faster for current and future residents.

“I first became aware of this technology at the Association of Municipalities (AMO) Conference two years ago and thought this would be a great way to improve efficiencies in the City's process. Cambridge is growing quickly, and we need to continue to find better ways to increase the housing supply while continuing to meet the needs of our community," Cambridge Mayor Jan Liggett says. “These new tools will help make the development process easier to understand and support a more efficient experience for residents, builders, and City staff.”

As of September 1, developers, builders, architects, and homeowners will be able to test their designs and review requirements online, offering greater certainty and reducing delays during the approval process.

“Creating a faster, more user-friendly development process is key to increasing housing supply,” said Hardy Bromberg, General Manager of Planning and Growth. “By reducing wait times and simplifying the application journey, these technologies will help advance housing projects more efficiently.”

The goal of these programs is to increase housing, drive economic growth, and modernize service delivery through innovation. After the September 1 launch, the City expects both platforms continue to improve through ongoing enhancements and expanded functionality as the technologies evolve.

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