A small beach town in California is using artificial intelligence to expand its efforts to identify and address illegal parking that blocks bike lanes. The city of Santa Cruz has partnered with Hayden AI, a technology company specializing in smart traffic solutions, to deploy AI-powered cameras on seven city vehicles. These cameras will automatically scan streets for vehicles parked in bike lanes, generating data on violations that can be used to inform enforcement and planning decisions. The system uses computer vision to detect when a vehicle is improperly parked in a designated bike lane, even if the vehicle is only partially blocking the path. The AI can distinguish between bikes, cars, and other objects, reducing false positives. The data collected will help city officials better understand where and when bike lane obstructions occur, enabling more targeted enforcement and improved infrastructure planning. Santa Cruz’s initiative is part of a broader trend in urban areas where cities are turning to AI to tackle traffic and safety challenges. By automating the detection of violations, the city aims to reduce the burden on human inspectors and respond more quickly to issues that threaten cyclist safety. The data will also support long-term efforts to redesign streets and prioritize safer, more accessible transportation options. City leaders emphasize that the goal is not solely punishment, but improving safety and encouraging responsible parking. The AI system does not issue tickets directly; instead, it provides actionable insights to support policy decisions and public awareness campaigns. Officials say the technology will help create a more predictable and safer environment for cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers alike. As cities across the U.S. grapple with increasing congestion and a push for sustainable transportation, Santa Cruz’s use of AI represents a growing shift toward data-driven urban management. The program is being closely watched by other municipalities considering similar tools to enhance street safety and efficiency.