Algorithmic City Planning Lab
About the Lab
This lab develops quantitative, data-driven tools to support urban planning and public policy. Working in collaboration with local authorities—most notably the Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality—it builds high-resolution databases based on unique municipal datasets.
By analyzing data on the provision and use of public institutions and commercial services, the lab creates models that help cities make smarter, fairer decisions about where to allocate resources and how to design urban services.
Purpose
The lab’s main goal is to identify spatial gaps in the availability of services and predict where additional facilities or programs are most needed. These models provide practical recommendations on:
-
Where to add new institutions and services
-
How to improve accessibility for relevant populations
-
Which existing facilities have high potential for resident engagement
These insights support evidence-based planning and policymaking that enhances urban well-being and promotes equity.
Broader Impact
Beyond targeted recommendations, the lab seeks to improve how municipalities allocate land and services in ways that reduce spatial inequalities and improve quality of life. The tools developed will also be made accessible to the public, enabling more transparent and inclusive urban planning processes.
Background
Urban planning shapes how land, infrastructure, and services are distributed across cities. These services—such as schools, daycare centers, community hubs, and even neighborhood businesses—play a vital role in residents’ physical and emotional well-being, their access to opportunities, and their social connectedness.
In low-income communities with limited mobility, nearby services are especially important. Accessible institutions not only improve daily life but also serve as gateways to long-term social mobility by connecting residents to resources, networks, and opportunities.
The Challenge
Despite having access to vast amounts of data, many municipalities still make decisions about service provision without using up-to-date, data-driven indicators. This often leads to inefficient distribution of services and the reinforcement of urban inequality.
The lab addresses this challenge by helping cities unlock the potential of their existing data—transforming it into actionable insights that support more equitable and effective urban planning.
