Geographic Information What will I find in this section? The page links listed above in this section include requested maps and data produced by the NFRMPO. Individual ESRI shapefiles or a zip file with all ESRI shapefiles is available for download under data files. Maps in PDF format are available for download under maps. Information about GIS can be found below.

What is GIS?

A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer-aided mapping and spatial analysis environment consisting of computers, hardware, software, spatial data, and users. GIS uses computers and software to leverage location in data analysis by taking the numbers and words from the rows and columns in databases and spreadsheets and putting them on a map in geometric relationship to other features on the face of the Earth. Placing data on maps, for example, can highlight where the region’s residents live or the location and size of roads in and around the region. It allows for examination, understanding, questioning, interpretation, and visualization of data in ways not possible when data is merely compiled in a spreadsheet or a graph. With data on a map, more questions can be answered. Users can ask where, why, and how, all with the location information at hand. This facilitates better decision-making by including geography and spatial analysis in the process.

How does the North Front Range MPO use GIS?

GIS is used in the analysis of current travel conditions, forecasting demographic and travel trends, as well as ad hoc mapping and analysis.

The North Front Range MPO also provides consultation to member localities that are undertaking GIS development projects, have GIS questions, or want to know what is happening with GIS at other federal, state, regional, and local agencies.

What kind of data does the North Front Range MPO use?

While the North Front Range MPO produces little original data, it has compiled spatial data covering the North Front Range MPO from a wide variety of federal, state, local, and private sources.

 

If you have further questions regarding maps or GIS data, contact akirchhoff@nfrmpo.org.