Seawolves Accessibility

Map of stony brook

Inspiration

While mapping services like Google Maps provide walking directions, they fail to consider accessibility barriers. We wanted to change that. Inspired by the need for a more inclusive campus, we created Seawolves Accessibility, an AI-focused navigation system that prioritizes accessibility for everyone."

What it does

Seawolves Accessibility is an intelligent mapping tool that generates optimal, disability-friendly routes across Stony Brook University’s campus. Unlike traditional navigation apps, our system: avoids stairs and inaccessible pathways using real-world geospatial data. Uses AI-focused routing to balance distance, difficulty, and time and provides multiple alternative routes for flexibility.

How we built it

We combined Google Maps API and OpenStreetMap (OSM) to extract the campus’ walkable paths, used Dijkstra’s algorithm to compute the most accessible path and React for an interactive map.

Challenges we ran into

Google Maps & OSM required manual validation and augmentation. Creating an efficient walkable network that dynamically avoids inaccessible paths required fine-tuning our cost function. Processing thousands of nodes for real-time routing while maintaining speed.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Our proudest achievement is successfully building a working prototype that generates accessible routes. Developed an AI-based cost function that intelligently weighs stairs and time for different users. Built a scalable framework that can expand to other campuses and cities. Last but not least, this tool can genuinely improve campus navigation for those with mobility challenges.

What we learned

Combining OSM & Google Maps provides richer data but also requires careful preprocessing. Optimizing geospatial algorithms for accessibility is complex but rewarding.

What's next for Seawolves Accessibility

We could definitely expand to more campuses & cities beyond Stony Brook. Crowdsourced accessibility feedback to improve real-time route suggestions, or even creating our own mobile app for easier accessibility.