NYU Researchers Launch 3D Virtual Twin of Downtown Brooklyn to Enhance Emergency Response

By Williamsburg 365 Staff

Researchers at NYU Tandon School of Engineering have initiated NanoDT, a cutting-edge project to create a real-time 3D digital replica of Downtown Brooklyn. The system aims to improve emergency response by providing detailed visuals and live traffic data to help teams navigate accidents and manage disruptions more efficiently. Led by NYU’s C2SMARTER research center, the project is funded by an NVIDIA Academic Grant and leverages AI technology to transform public data into actionable insights.

NanoDT integrates existing city infrastructure, such as traffic cameras and public data feeds, to generate real-time 3D maps. The system allows responders to assess situations remotely, identify optimal routes, and reduce the risk of secondary accidents. Additionally, the platform highlights nearby resources, like parking lots and alternate access points, to minimize traffic blockages during emergencies.

Currently being tested with data from Downtown Brooklyn, NanoDT has the potential to expand to other cities, offering a cost-effective solution for emergency response and traffic management. Downtown Brooklyn's dense transit network and key location make it an ideal starting point for this transformative initiative.

photo: NYU/NVIDIA