Abstract

Enhancing GIS Accessibility for Local Governments in Southern California
Track: State and Local Government
Authors: Javier Aguilar, Ping Wang, Javier Minjares, Kimberly Clark, Jung Seo

The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), a Metropolitan Planning Organization for Southern California, has developed a GIS Services Program to assist 191 cities and 6 counties within their region to better utilize GIS. SCAG launched a pilot GIS program with the purpose of developing accurate and current land use and planning data required under California Senate Bill 375. The State law, in conjunction with federal law, encourages local jurisdictions to actively participate in the regional planning process. Due to limited/or no access to GIS among various jurisdictions, the pilot program was established. The program has increased communication channels between SCAG and local jurisdictions by helping to update, share, and exchange information. This paper/presentation demonstrates how participating jurisdictions were selected, what and how GIS services were provided, and how communication channels were improved; in addition we address issues and lessons learned throughout the process and the future of the program.