The Spatial Analysis Group
Bad planning decisions often stem from bad information. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) provide a platform to collect, analyze, and disseminate information about our urban environment – land, transportation, the environment, and its people. The goal of the Spatial Analysis Group of the Planning and Development Review Department is to provide timely, accurate, and value added GIS information through a variety of outlets so everyone has the information they need to participate in the planning process. This group includes three dedicated GIS Planner/Analysts, plus the City's Demographer.
Map Page - Quick link to our standard maps
Demographics - Analysis of Census data including population, rate of growth, distribution, ethnicity, and income.
Development - Producing "Growth Watch" and GIS data to monitor development activity
Employment - GIS, maps and tables showing size and location of major employers
Land Use - GIS, maps and tables showing land use patterns and parcel data
What Do We Do?
Build GIS Data - Research and extract "raw" data from the City Development Tracking System (aka AMANDA), the Census Bureau, Appraisal Districts, and other sources, and convert this information into GIS
Create Value Added GIS Analyses - Improve GIS data by adding additional analysis to existing information. For example, we created additional information from basic appraisal data to measure what properties are maximizing their development potential.
Share Information - Create maps, data, and reports
from the GIS data. This information is generally provided free of charge to public and private entities.
Support Department GIS Needs - Anything from providing technical support and training, to creating web pages for the department.
How Does this Benefit the City?
GIS has become an indispensable tool in comprehensive planning efforts. It allows planners to measure a plan's effectiveness, improve coordination among departments, and communicate that information to the public. The City would pay significantly more for the information and services that we provide.
Other GIS Links
Official City of Austin GIS Layers - includes aerials, base layers, and standard maps not created by NPZD.
Official City of Austin GIS Viewer - view aerials and GIS themes without the need for GIS software.
The Development Assistance Center provides assistance with building permits and site plans.
What is GIS (http://www.gis.com)?
Return to NPZD Home
|
