Transportation GIS

Definition

Transportation GIS is a specific category of Geographic Information System (GIS) that is primarily focused on the application of spatial information and geographic functions in transportation-related contexts. GIS is a technology that utilizes geographic data to analyze, map, and interpret the world, enabling users to view and understand patterns, relationships, and trends. Applying this technology to the transport sector allows improved efficiency, safety, and sustainability in planning, design, and operation of transportation systems.

What is Transportation GIS?

Transportation GIS offers solutions to a variety of transport-related problems. This technology can help improve transportation planning, transportation management and operation, route selection and scheduling, traffic flow analysis and prediction, accident analysis and prevention, and infrastructure management, among other applications.

For example, using transportation GIS, analysts can visualize and examine the distribution of transportation facilities and services in an area, model traffic patterns and flow, assess transportation network efficiency, accessibility, and connectivity, and evaluate the potential impacts of transportation projects and policies on the environment and communities.

Transportation GIS primarily uses two types of data: spatial (geographic) data and attribute data. Spatial data represents the physical location and shape of geographic features, while attribute data provides additional information about these geographic features (e.g., the type and capacity of a road or the schedule of a bus route).

FAQs

What are the benefits of using Transportation GIS?

Transportation GIS provides a host of benefits, including improved decision-making, enhanced coordination and planning, increased efficiency, cost and time savings, improved safety and sustainability, and enhanced community engagement and public participation.

What are some examples of Transportation GIS applications?

Transportation GIS applications can include traffic forecasting models, routing and scheduling systems, accident mapping and analysis systems, public transit planning and management systems, transportation infrastructure inventory and management systems, and environmental assessment systems.

Who uses Transportation GIS?

Transportation GIS is used by a wide range of users, including transportation planners and engineers, traffic managers, transit operators, asset and infrastructure managers, environmental analysts, policy makers, emergency responders, and researchers.

How does Transportation GIS relate to Smart Cities?

In smart cities, Transportation GIS can offer real-time geographic data and analysis for better decision-making and operation of urban transportation systems, contributing to safer, more efficient, and sustainable urban mobility. It can also enhance citizen engagement through interactive maps and location-based services.