#United States #New York #Newlab #NYC DOT #urban safety

Newlab and NYC DOT: Partnering to Enhance Urban Safety through AI

In an exciting development for startups focusing on artificial intelligence, Newlab has joined forces with the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) for the launch of the third round of the NYC DOT Innovation Studio. This initiative aims to invite innovative ventures to test AI-driven technologies designed to improve monitoring, maintenance, and management of the city's transportation networks.

This year's program is open for applications until August 15, 2025, with selected participants set to deploy their pilot projects from October 2025 through January 2026. The focus is on co-developing solutions that tackle pressing urban infrastructure and safety challenges that New York City faces today.

The Program Details

The NYC DOT Innovation Studio emphasizes collaboration with startups, providing essential resources such as pilot-design support, a deployment stipend, and direct access to Newlab's expansive network and NYC DOT's operational insights. Each selected startup will have the opportunity to develop real-world projects that enhance urban life through technology.

NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez expressed his enthusiasm for this year's program, noting that partnerships like these are critical for advancing the city’s commitment to safer and more efficient public spaces. “By testing emerging technologies,” Rodriguez stated, “we can improve real-time transportation management across NYC.”

David Belt, the CEO of Newlab, echoed these sentiments, asserting that NYC DOT has consistently led the charge in technological innovation for urban infrastructure. “We’re proud to build on our ongoing partnership to support breakthrough startups,” he said, recognizing the urgent need for solutions to address New York City's street challenges.

Pilot Tracks and Innovations

Startups interested in participating can choose from four designated pilot tracks:

• - Speed Limit Sign Monitoring: This initiative focuses on automating the detection of missing or damaged speed limit signs, enhancing law enforcement and safety operations.
• - Streetlight Outage Detection: Replace the traditional 311 systems with innovative real-time detection tools for optimal nighttime visibility.
• - Construction Permit Compliance: Projects in this area aim to monitor job sites to verify adherence to permitted operations, effectively improving safety and compliance.
• - Open Category: A flexible track for other AI applications that could include predictive maintenance, detection of near-miss incidents, or toll evasion enforcement.

Solutions proposed must prioritize transparency, privacy, and fairness, and startups from adjacent industries with applicable technology are encouraged to apply.

Benefits for Participants

Selected startups will receive non-dilutive pilot funding to offset deployment expenses, direct collaboration with NYC DOT including access to testbeds and operational data, and workspace at Newlab's innovative facility located in Brooklyn's Navy Yard, which hosts an impressive array of over 300 tech startups.

The timeline for this initiative is as follows:

• - Open Call Launch: July 23, 2025
• - Application Deadline: August 15, 2025
• - Startup Selection: September 2025
• - Pilot Design and Contracting: September 2025
• - Pilot Deployment: October 2025 - January 2026
• - Public Showcase: February 2026

Conclusion

This initiative marks a significant step in New York City's journey towards responsible and impactful use of artificial intelligence for public good. Startups ready to tackle real challenges in urban transportation and safety are encouraged to apply, helping to pave the way for a safer, more efficient New York City.

For applications and further information, startups can visit the official NYC DOT Innovation Studio website.