Zhong-Ren Peng — AI-Human Co-Creation in Urban Planning: The CORE Framework
The Center for Urban Science + Progress (CUSP) at NYU Tandon welcomes you to attend a lecture by Zhong-Ren Peng, professor in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning and director of the International Center for Adaptation Planning and Design (iAdapt) at the University of Florida. This event, hosted as part of the Fall 2025 Research Seminar Series, will be held in Room 1201 at 370 Jay Street.
About the Lecture
AI-Human Co-Creation in Urban Planning: The CORE Framework
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a passive planning tool—it is emerging as a creative partner with the capacity to reshape urban planning theory and practice. This presentation introduces Symbiotic Planning Theory, a new paradigm that integrates AI as an active co-creator alongside planners and communities. Building on the strengths of Rational Planning Theory (rigor), Participatory Planning Theory (inclusivity), and Co-Design Theory (iterative collaboration), Symbiotic Planning Theory redefines the planning process as a cyclical, AI–human partnership operationalized through the CORE Framework—Collaboration, Options, Refinement, Execution. This framework leverages generative AI, natural language processing, and IoT to scale participation, expand creative options, refine plans iteratively, and monitor implementation adaptively. Unlike sequential automation models, the symbiotic approach embeds human oversight and values in every phase, enhancing equity and adaptability while addressing wicked urban problems. The presentation clarifies the theory’s conceptual foundations, its relationship to existing paradigms, and its practical applications, illustrated through a micromobility planning case. It will conclude with a discussion of theoretical and practical significance, challenges, and a research agenda for embedding AI–human co-creation into urban governance.
About the Speaker
Dr. Zhong-Ren Peng is a Professor of Urban and Regional Planning and Director of iAdapt: International Center for Adaptation Planning and Design at the University of Florida. His pioneering work in urban planning AI and climate change adaptation integrates technology with community-driven solutions. Dr. Peng’s seminal book, Internet GIS, advanced geospatial technology for urban visualization and public participation, widely adopted in academic and professional settings. His innovative research includes AI-enabled urban planning, exemplified by his forthcoming book, Urban Planning AI: Bridging Technology and Community (Elsevier, 2025), and the development of an integrated air pollution monitoring platform using UAVs and mobile sensors. Leading iAdapt, he collaborates with Florida communities to design resilient, sustainable coastal infrastructure. A Nonresident Senior Fellow at The Atlantic Council’s GeoTech Center, Dr. Peng’s work shapes global urban planning discourse, earning him a ranking among the world’s top 2% of scientists.
Visitor Information
This event will be held in Room 1201 at 370 Jay St. Please visit the NYU Tandon website for directions and a campus map. Advance registration through Luma is required for campus access at NYU for external guests.
About the Urban Science Research Seminar Series
The Center for Urban Science + Progress’s annual Research Seminar series features leading voices in the growing field of urban informatics examining real-world challenges facing cities and urban environments around the world. The Fall 2025 series is organized by Assistant Professors Graham Dove, Yuki Miura, Qi Sun, and Takahiro Yabe.