“If there’s one issue uniting cities across the Americas in 2026, it’s the need to build more housing.” Senior Vice President and Managing Director @RVHaynes outlines how cities can address housing affordability challenges through the strategic use of data and AI in her annual letter. “Leveraging data and increasingly, the use of artificial intelligence, are critical enablers of progress,” she explains. “Certified cities are demonstrating what that means.” From Edmonton’s AI-powered permit reviews to Buenos Aires’ 3D zoning maps and more, city governments prove that strong data and operational excellence can unlock housing supply. At What Works Cities, we’ll be tracking how local governments use data and AI to drive housing innovation in 2026 and helping leaders in our network supercharge their efforts. Learn practical lessons and best practices by reading Rochelle’s letter here: whatworkscities.bloomberg.or…

Are stronger data practices your city hall's New Year's resolution? Whether your city is a data trailblazer or just getting started, What Works Cities helps you grow your data practices and connect with peers across the Americas. The first step is the Data Snapshot. In eight multiple-choice questions, you'll get an initial picture of your city's data capacity. The Data Snapshot also unlocks free support and resources that help cities get more from data and make progress on issues that matter to residents. Supercharge your city's data practices in 2026: bit.ly/47lFtxo Watch the video in: Portuguese: youtube.com/watch?v=94t-plvb… Spanish: youtube.com/watch?v=DAKUOvb2… French: youtube.com/watch?v=i6eUwy8y…

At the AI Summit New York, WWC Managing Director @RVHaynes and @CityofSeattle's @CivicCIO explored how cities are using AI to move faster and smarter during emergencies. Rob and Rochelle discussed challenges such as homelessness and public safety, emphasized the need for real-time information sharing and highlighted how AI can enhance disaster management through improved data analytics and community engagement. Thank you, Rob, for sharing your expertise.