Artificial Intelligence is being used to help detect and plan repairs to roads and footpaths throughout Christchurch.

Cameras are connected to Christchurch City Council contractor vehicles to record the condition of streets as they move around the city.

City Streets Maintenance Manager Steve Guy said, “An algorithm scans the camera recording to identify all faults, categorises them and presents repair options for our contracting teams to review. If the repairs are updated by the team, the algorithm learns what it needs to do in future.”

“The cameras have been detecting everything from damage on both roads and footpaths to damaged or missing street signs,” Guy said.

He said the technology has been equipped to a multitude of different types of vehicles for the last few years – trucks, utes, mobility scooters, bicycles.

“However, we’re now at the stage where we have collected enough data to provide a huge benefit to the council and residents. The AI technology is at a place where it is far more efficient,” he said.

“We have been able to reduce the number of manual inspections we need to do, reducing the risk to staff on the ground from traffic, as well as reducing traffic management on the roads. It has also had the added benefit of freeing up inspector’s time so they can add value elsewhere.”

“Due to the amount of data collected we have been able to streamline greater delivery of projects and get the best value for money. The process we use to make the most of the AI data ensures the right piece of work is done, for the right reason, at the right time and at the best price.”

The data is also used when applying for funding from NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi as the detail it provides is so comprehensive.

“We’ve been able to significantly increase the amount of funding we get because we’ve been able to show thorough data and analysis of what condition the road is in, on top of the strategies of how we maintain our roads,” Guy said.