NYC launches 3D Underground mapping platform to modernize utility coordination
(UI) - New York City has announced 3D Underground (3DU), a $10 million initiative to create a secure, citywide platform that maps underground utilities and soil conditions across all five boroughs. The effort marks the first citywide underground data-sharing system in the U.S., aligning New York with global leaders such as Singapore, Tokyo and the U.K.
The platform—developed through a public-private partnership among city agencies, utility companies and academic partners—will compile detailed information on water and sewer lines, gas mains, electric and telecom conduits, fiber networks, and subsurface geology. Officials say the system will allow utilities and city departments to securely share data, reduce construction conflicts, improve capital project planning, and strengthen emergency response to underground failures.
Funded through a federal HUD disaster-recovery grant, 3DU builds on earlier ground-scanning efforts led by the city and NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering. A key component includes digitizing thousands of existing geotechnical reports and working with Columbia University to fill soil data gaps citywide. The model will support stormwater management, climate resilience and excavation safety by enabling more accurate subsurface planning.
City leaders say the platform answers long-standing challenges highlighted after 9/11 and during recent severe weather events, when agencies lacked an integrated view of underground conditions. With more efficient data sharing, the Adams administration expects fewer project delays, less disruption to residents and businesses, and more coordinated maintenance of aging water and sewer infrastructure.
The 3DU platform is expected to launch for users in early 2028.
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