Geographic Information System (GIS) integrates hardware, software, and data for capturing, managing, analyzing, and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information. This is especially useful in a municipality such as the City of Cedar Rapids due to the vastness of land both in geographical classification, availability of utilities, and legal zonings.
GIS allows us to view, understand, question, interpret, and visualize data in many ways that reveal relationships, patterns, and trends in the form of maps, globes, reports, and charts. This allows people with different specialties and needs to reference common information.
GIS also helps us answer questions and solve problems by looking at data in a way that is quickly understood and easily shared. This ability was a great value in the aftermath of the 2008 flood in creating a recovery plan and designing defenses for the future.
What does GIS do for Cedar Rapids?
The City of Cedar Rapids GIS Division works within the Information Technology Department. We maintain geographic data for Planning, Public Works, Public Safety systems, and other municipal government activities. We also provide specialized cartography for many programs within the city and for public and private requests.
Improvements in GIS technology and skills, allows for a more efficient government. GIS also improves response time for Emergency Services which provides better public safety for the citizens of Cedar Rapids.
