Calgary uses AI to determine the 50 highest-risk intersections for pedestrians

The City of Calgary has utilized artificial intelligence to identify the 50 most dangerous pedestrian intersections throughout the city. However, only half of these locations are slated for upgrades, with the remaining 26 recommended for improvement. According to a forthcoming report set to be discussed at the city's Community Development Committee meeting, administration employed AI to evaluate over 17,000 intersections in Calgary, assigning a risk score to each one.

City officials compiled a list of the top 50 highest-risk pedestrian intersections that lack existing traffic signals, such as rectangular rapid flashing beacons. The intersection with the highest risk score is Martindale Boulevard and Martindale Gate N.E., followed by Falshire Drive and Falton Drive N.E. Ward 5 Coun. Raj Dhaliwal expressed surprise at the high-risk ratings of certain intersections, particularly those in his area, where he observes minimal pedestrian traffic.

Just 26 of the 50 locations are recommended for pedestrian safety improvements, estimated to cost around $6 million. The report suggests that administration could proactively advance improvements with additional funding instead of waiting for future traffic counts, collision histories, or studies to justify intervention under traditional processes.

Some councillors have questions about the methodology used to determine these findings, including the AI modeling, inputs, and prompts. Dhaliwal emphasized the need for transparency and understanding of the process behind the AI-driven recommendations. The city's AI usage is described as "innovative" by Alex Gaio, an associate principal at Leading Mobility, given the vast amount of data that needs to be processed.

With over 15 pedestrian fatalities last year and six injuries this year, city officials assert that prioritizing pedestrian and motor vehicle safety should be a top priority. While committee members are not being asked to commit funds at the meeting, city administration stated that the pedestrian safety upgrades could be incorporated into the next four-year budget. If approved, design work could commence in 2027, with construction set to begin in 2028.