On May 28, 2025, the City of Miami and citizenM brought together tech leaders, government officials, and urban innovators for an evening rooftop Tech Mixer at the citizenM Miami Worldcenter hotel. Sponsored by C3.ai, the event explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping zoning processes—a foundational step in enabling responsible, accelerated urban development.
Moving from Manual to AI-Driven Zoning
Zoning verification letters are a critical component in Miami’s real estate and construction landscape. These documents confirm whether a property complies with the City’s zoning code—a necessity for securing financing and development approvals.
During the event, Keith Carswell, Director of the City’s Department of Economic Innovation and Development, moderated a dynamic panel discussion featuring:
- Tamara Allen-Frost, Director, City of Miami Department of Zoning
- Arturo Duque, Interim CIO, City of Miami Department of Innovation and Technology
- Trevor McLaughlin, Senior Director for Strategic Solutions, C3.ai
The Challenge: High Demand, Limited Resources
Tamara Allen-Frost outlined the intense workload her office manages. With only six zoning specialists, her team issues roughly 500 zoning verification letters per year—each requiring extensive manual research. More broadly, her 32-member department processes over 21,000 building permits and 5,000 business applications annually, playing a vital role in supporting Miami’s $4.5 billion annual construction economy.
“It’s such a lengthy process to actually research and provide correct information,” Allen-Frost noted. “Because if bad information goes out and bad information comes in—bad development follows.”
The Solution: AI-Powered Acceleration
That’s where C3.ai enters the picture. Trevor McLaughlin introduced an AI zoning platform that synthesizes data across systems to rapidly answer complex zoning questions. The pilot program, starting with Transit Zone 5, aims to deliver zoning verification within 48 hours, drastically cutting down lead time and freeing up staff capacity for higher-value work.
“Ultimately, it’s a solution that the citizens can use,” McLaughlin said. “You can log in and ask—Can I do an Airbnb? Can I expand it?”
Balancing Innovation and Security
Arturo Duque emphasized the importance of data protection, especially as zoning databases include sensitive details like police stations and federal buildings. He highlighted the City’s focus on partnering with proven providers like C3.ai to manage cybersecurity risks as AI tools access government systems.
“The zoning verification letters are based on GIS data,” Duque explained. “A lot of the breakers are confidential. It’s very important for us to partner with companies that have experience.”
Carswell added that vetting sensitive information, particularly regarding elected officials and secure facilities, is key to responsible AI implementation.
A Vision for Smarter Cities
Addressing concerns around job displacement, Carswell pointed instead to a future where AI boosts productivity, empowering zoning staff to focus on complex reviews and strategic projects. He also previewed the City’s next bold step: the AI Digital Twin initiative, launching soon as part of a broader effort to position Miami as a hub for applied AI and smart city innovation.
The Tech Mixer made clear: Miami isn’t waiting on the future—it’s building it. By leveraging AI to solve real-world challenges like zoning, the City is leading with efficiency, responsibility, and vision, setting a new standard for urban governance in the digital age.
