About 3D

The Boston citywide 3D Smart Model helps staff address complex planning and development challenges using advanced technology. Our virtual model lets us see different ideas in 3D, allowing city planners, policymakers, and the community to explore, assess, and visualize urban planning issues and their impacts, making complex concepts more accessible.

Accessible online, it offers a city-wide view in 3D on request and immediately downloadable in various open-source data formats.

The Citywide 3D Model originated from Boston's 2011 planimetric data and receives regular updates sourced from Urban Design models, CyberCity 3D, and LiDAR data.

Managed through the citySchema model stewardship process by the GIS Lab, this open-source 3D model architecture and digital asset management system was developed by Paul Cote. Its primary aim is to foster collaboration among diverse communities interested in comprehending the evolution and potential changes within different city areas. To learn more about it, visit citySchema.org.