ParkPals

ParkPal is an AI-powered assistant designed to help residents and families discover and navigate public parks, with a particular focus on accessibility and amenity transparency. Developed as part of "AI for Social Good" initiatives, the app allows users to upload a photo of a park sign or enter a location to receive detailed information about its features, including wheelchair-accessible paths, playground equipment, picnic areas, and fitness amenities. The tool leverages a combination of official city park data (such as GIS maps) and generative AI to provide accurate, real-time answers to specific user questions, such as "Does this park have a fenced-in dog area?" or "Are the restrooms open today?" By centralizing Fragmented data from various municipal websites, ParkPal lowers the barrier for individuals with mobility challenges or sensory needs to plan safe and enjoyable outdoor visits. Projects like "ParkPal Chicago" and "ParkPal San José" demonstrate how localized AI tools can enhance community engagement and promote the equitable use of public green spaces. The platform often integrates community feedback, allowing users to report broken equipment or updated hours, keeping the data current and reliable.