GIS for the masses  Until recently, the tools of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were available to those how could afford relatively expensive software. Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) has long been the leader in the field and they have provided some free GIS data viewers such as ArcExplorer and ArcExplorer Web. In order to actually create GIS data, there have been few options. The open source products such as GRASS have had their share of problems and require a certain commitment to installing and learning the software.

There is now an excellent, easy to use tool for creating and displaying GIS data. For $20/year, Google Earth Plus allows users to digitize data using the very detailed Google Earth imagery. One can also incorporate GPS data, import address data, and other capabilities. Google really is trying to take over the world.

I've started to compile a map of bike routes in Fairfax County using the product. Once I've completed the digitization, the points can be transferred to Google Maps and can be displayed by anyone using Google Maps. I've transferred a couple of sample routes, the W&OD Trail to the Vienna Metro station, and what we refer to as the Bicycle Beltway, from Tysons Corner to Springfield. The later is under development, as the roads need to be widened in some spots and restriped in others to create space for cyclists.
posted by Bruce Wright at 11:39 AM #