Introduction to UrbanCanvas Modeler

UrbanCanvas Modeler provides access to block, zone, and parcel-level UrbanSim models and supporting tools for crafting and evaluating a small-area socioeconomic forecast. The platform is designed to support long-range regional planning and scenario analysis. It comes with data management tools for uploading and organizing model inputs, tracking the real estate development pipeline, recording development constraints, creating model adjustments to incorporate jurisdictional feedback, and composing scenarios. The platform allows users to launch one or multiple simultaneous simulations on our managed compute infrastructure and then to assess simulation results using an indicator framework with results available for visualization on the 3D map, as tables, or as charts. In addition, UrbanCanvas offers a commenting feature that can be used to collect internal and external feedback on input data or model results at any stage of the modeling process.

For block-level UrbanSim users, the platform gives Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) in the U.S. the ability to immediately start simulating their region using UrbanSim with pre-trained UrbanSim models. For zone and parcel-level UrbanSim users, the platform gives regional planning agencies access to their specific implementation of UrbanSim as designed through their consulting contract. Whether using the platform as a primary land use model or using it as an additional analytic tool, UrbanCanvas Modeler provides practical functionality for regional modeling, with an emphasis on incorporating local expertise into the forecast process.

The UrbanSim methodology is a behavioral representation of the regional real estate market, and it is used operationally by a number of MPOs across the United States to conduct sub-regional allocation and scenario analysis. The methodology is data-driven and powered by statistical models estimated using observed local data. Traditionally, developing an UrbanSim model was a multi-year process, but UrbanCanvas Modeler now makes UrbanSim more accessible to regional planning agencies. For additional background on the methodology, see the UrbanSim methodology page here and the following list of resources on our webpage here.

Just getting started with UrbanCanvas Modeler?

Start reading here, view our UrbanCanvas Modeler block-level Planetizen courses videos, and try the block-level model introductory tutorial.