Mapping and GIS

What is GIS?Stormwater GIS Dashboard

GIS stands for Geographic Information Systems and refers to the development of spatially-aware databases in which geographic data (points, lines and polygons representing real-world features) and non-spatial data (tables, spreadsheets, forms, and photos) are stored and used for informational and analytical purposes. The City of Monroe has records dating back to the 1930s or even earlier and was in need of a centralize repository for this information that could be shared across multiple departments and with adjacent utilities.

  • Addresses
  • Street Centerlines
  • Stormwater Infrastructure
  • Water Distribution Infrastructure
  • Public Safety Datasets
  • Pavement and Parking Lots
  • Fiber and Telecom
  • Annexation Records
  • Economic Development
  • Planning and Zoning Records
  • Construction Plans and As-Builts
  • Plot Plans

What does Monroe use GIS for?

Monroe utilizes GIS heavily in its Public Works and Development Departments, and provides extensive support to the Monroe Fire Department. Monroe's GIS Department has accurately mapped the City's water distribution utility, its stormwater infrastructure, facilities and parks and provides this data to utilities wishing to expand in Monroe and to construction contractors prior to breaking ground in order to prevent damage or service interruptions to our utility customers. 

The GIS department develops mobile data collection applications enabling end users to produce and edit geospatial data. Good examples of this include providing the Fire Department with the ability to record hydrant flushing activities, private hydrant inspections, and private fire line testing documentation for future reference. As FD staff flush hydrants and check for maintenance issues, their input dynamically updates all maps in the city, improving communication time between departments. 

The GIS department also produces printable PDF maps for multiple departments as needed and produces poster-sized maps and infographics to support various initiatives throughout the city. 

The GIS Department also operates an Unpiloted Aerial Vehicle (UAV) or drone in support of city initiatives, mainly to capture imagery or video of facilities from above. The GIS Analyst has a Part 107 Commercial Drone Pilot License and strictly adheres to all Federal Airspace regulations established by the Federal Aviation Administration. 

Top 5 Benefits of GIS

  1. Cost savings resulting from greater efficiency
  2. Better decision making/Data-Driven Decision Making
  3. Improved Communication
  4. Better Geographic Recordkeeping
  5. Managing Geographically

Source: GISandScience.com website; Top 5 Benefits of GIS

Monroe's Online Interactive Maps