City Lens NYC
City Lens NYC is a civic technology platform that translates complex New York City data into accessible, usable insights for everyday people. NYC has one of the largest open data ecosystems, but most residents do not have the time, technical skills, or context to actually use it. City Lens closes that gap.
The platform lets users explore neighborhoods, understand zoning and development, ask questions about policies, and see how changes like gentrification, infrastructure projects, or permits affect their communities. It combines data storytelling with an AI-powered interface so users can ask real questions in plain language and get clear answers.
I am excited to include City Lens as a Public Interest Technology project because it focuses on accessibility, transparency, and empowerment. It is not just about data, it is about helping people understand what is happening around them and feel confident engaging with their city. Long term, I want this to become a tool communities, students, and organizers can use to make informed decisions and advocate for change. Showing in real time what translating datasets into visualization for the public looks like.