Why is LIDAR favored for urban planning and design?

LIDAR is particularly favored for urban planning and design primarily because it provides high-resolution topographical data quickly and accurately. This technology uses laser light to measure distances to the Earth and can capture detailed 3D representations of landscapes, structures, and terrain features. Such precise topographical information is essential for urban planners as it allows them to analyze elevation changes, land use, and spatial relationships within an urban environment effectively.

The ability to collect comprehensive and detailed datasets in a relatively short time frame ensures that urban planning projects can progress efficiently. It enables planners to make informed decisions about zoning, infrastructure development, environmental impact assessments, and more, ultimately contributing to better-designed urban spaces that meet the needs of residents and businesses alike.

The other options do not accurately reflect the advantages of LIDAR in urban planning. While photographic data might be part of remote sensing efforts, it is not the primary benefit of using LIDAR. Additionally, LIDAR is not limited to rural areas; it is highly relevant and useful in urban settings. Lastly, while LIDAR may use GPS data to enhance accuracy, it does not rely solely on it; the core functionality of LIDAR is based on laser range measurements which provide much more than what GPS alone can