Mapping and GIS

What is GIS?

GIS stands for Geographic Information System, a technology used for storing, viewing, processing, and analyzing geographic data. GIS is a powerful tool for citizens, government agencies, and private entities alike. GIS is used for a wide variety of purposes to include: asset management, planning, emergency services, transportation, and environmental monitoring.

GIS in the City of Lynchburg and Data Transparency

The City of Lynchburg utilizes GIS for mapping, analysis, training, asset management, planning, and communicating throughout the entire organization. Whether it is a simple map or complex analysis, GIS plays an integral role in the day to day operations of many departments. GIS is also used as a communication tool for employees and between the City and its citizens. The data managed by GIS professionals throughout the City is made available to the public via several online mapping applications and an open data portal.

GIS Division

The role of the GIS Division is to:

  • Provide GIS related service to all City departments, citizens, and professionals
  • Develop and maintain the City's GIS infrastructure on an enterprise level
  • Analyze departmental requirements for database development
  • Integrate GIS with other City systems to enhance workflow, analysis, and service capabilities
  • Maintain and update City GIS planimetric and topographic data layers
  • Develop complex customized maps, tables, and presentations
  • Provide instruction and support on the content of the database structure, capabilities of GIS, and the use of the online GIS applications
  • Perform extractions of geographic and non-geographic data using query and analysis capabilities of GIS
  • Provide support and instruction on capturing, processing, and integrating field data through GPS