Engineering
Geographic Information System (GIS)
A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer
system capable of capturing, storing, analyzing,
and displaying geographically referenced information;
that is, data identified according to location.
The power of a GIS comes from the ability to relate
different information in a spatial context and to
reach a conclusion about this relationship. Simply
put, a GIS combines layers of information about a
place to give you a better understanding of that
place. What layers of information you combine
depends on your purpose.
Our system contains over 30 layers encompassing Bossier
City and some of the surrounding area. Each
layer consists of specific geographic features such
as buildings, pavements, water lines, etc. To
make a map of the information, we simply turn on
those layers we are interested in.
One of the main benefits of GIS is improved management
of your organization and resources. A GIS can link
data sets together by common locational data, such
as addresses, which helps departments and agencies
share their data. By creating a shared database,
one department can benefit from the work of another—data
can be collected once and used many times.
The old adage “better information leads to better
decisions” is true for GIS. A GIS is
not just an automated decision making system but
a tool to query, analyze, and map data in support
of the decision making process.
For example, GIS can be used to help reach a decision
about the location of a new housing development that
has minimal environmental impact, is located in a
low-risk area, and is close to a population center. The
information can be presented concisely and clearly
in the form of a map and accompanying report, allowing
decision makers to focus on the real issues rather
than trying to understand the data. Because
GIS products can be produced quickly, multiple scenarios
can be evaluated efficiently and effectively. From
zoning and fire prevention to road building, managers
throughout the city utilize GIS data to assist in
the day-to-day operations of their departments.
Real time, interactive mapping via the internet is
part of our plan for the future. Until then,
we will be providing jpeg images for you to use. Check
this site for new or updated maps as they become
available.
GIS Maps
You will need to install the Adobe SVG
View to view the maps.
Contact
Info:
William
Bradley 
:
GIS Coordinator
620 Benton Road
P.O. Box 5337
Bossier City, LA 71171-5337
Phone: 318.741.8564 - Fax: 318.741.8792