Published August 6 2025
Partnership with Govstream.ai aims to test AI to streamline and accelerate city’s permitting processes and support housing and economic development goals
As Bellevue’s growth continues, the city remains committed to fostering a thriving community that is supported by a high-quality built and natural environment. To help achieve that objective, the City of Bellevue is partnering with Govstream.ai to pilot and test tools to streamline and accelerate the permitting process using artificial intelligence.
Through this innovative public-private design partnership, new AI tools are being developed by Govstream.ai and piloted by the city to improve efficiency and create a more consistent, user-friendly permitting experience for the community.
The initial phase of the pilot is focused on supporting permitting staff as they assist customers, with potential to expand into other areas in the future. Connected to code resources, geographic information and more, this initial interface will serve as a smart assistant by helping staff quickly access accurate information and navigate complexities to provide more consistent, efficient service.
Building on the city’s strong foundation of service, this effort expands the capacity to meet the needs of a dynamic and growing city. By streamlining the permitting process, the city aims to support housing and economic development while maintaining the high standards that define Bellevue’s character and livability.
“This partnership reflects our vision as a city where people want to be,” said City Manager Diane Carlson. “The initiative will help reduce the turnaround time and complexity of permit applications—an objective Bellevue has prioritized for several years. We think it will reduce headaches for residents and staff alike.” This values-driven effort prioritizes ethical use of AI, accountability and inclusion, with safeguards in place to protect data, prevent bias and promote equitable outcomes.
Govstream.ai is a venture-backed startup dedicated to harnessing AI responsibly and transparently to eliminate the friction, confusion and wait times that slow permitting, thereby constraining housing supply. The platform turns a city’s codes, GIS, records and permit application history into step-by-step guidance, with the goal of assisting staff to manage backlogs and permit reviews while giving applicants a clear, responsive path to faster more predictable approvals.
“Bellevue’s forward-thinking approach shows how thoughtful AI can boost staff capacity, elevate customer service, and advance housing goals,” said Safouen Rabah, CEO of Govstream.ai. “We’re proud to contribute our expertise through this innovative design partnership.”
Future phases of the partnership and pilot project will include exploring opportunities to streamline the permit application process and accelerate the initial review of application submissions. Once pilot phases conclude, Bellevue will determine whether to implement the AI tools into standard practice.
This public-private design partnership served as a model for a recent City Council resolution establishing policy for future technological collaborations. More information on the city’s partnership with Govstream.ai is at Govstream.ai Partnership. More details about this partnership will be presented at the Innovation Forum in October.