Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are a core component of DVRPC’s planning and analytical work. We use GIS to support data-driven decision-making across the Greater Philadelphia region by integrating spatial data with transportation, land use, environmental, and economic analyses.
GIS enables planners and stakeholders to visualize, query, and analyze geographic information—revealing patterns, relationships, and trends that inform smarter investments and policies. Nearly all DVRPC projects incorporate GIS technology to support data collection, management, analysis, and communication.
What We Do
DVRPC provides a wide range of GIS services to support member governments, partner agencies, and the public:
- Spatial Analysis & Modeling: Conduct advanced geospatial analysis to support planning initiatives, including transportation, land use, environmental assessment, and demographic analysis.
- Data Development & Management: Maintain and curate regional geospatial datasets covering transportation networks, demographics, land use, environmental resources, and infrastructure.
- Mapping & Visualization: Develop high-quality maps, and interactive web applications that communicate complex data in clear and accessible ways.
- Web GIS & Application Development: Build and maintain interactive mapping tools and applications using modern web GIS technologies to support planning, analysis, and public engagement.
- Regional Data Integration: Integrate data from local, state, and federal partners to create consistent, reliable regional datasets.
Supporting Regional Planning
GIS supports a wide range of DVRPC initiatives and planning efforts, including:
- Long-range planning and scenario analysis
- Transportation planning and travel demand modeling
- Bicycle and pedestrian planning
- Safety and crash analysis
- Environmental and land use planning
- Title VI compliance analysis
Aerial Imagery
Aerial imagery of the Greater Philadelphia region is a foundational resource for planning, analysis, and visualization. DVRPC provides access to a comprehensive collection of both current and historical imagery, offering a detailed and chronological view of regional conditions and land use change over time.
This resource supports a wide range of activities, including mapping, transportation planning, land use analysis, environmental assessment, and project development.
Orthoimagery
DVRPC maintains a regional archive of high-resolution orthoimagery—geometrically corrected aerial imagery that accurately represents the earth’s surface. Because distortions from terrain and camera position are removed, orthoimagery can be used for precise measurement and spatial analysis.
- Available for multiple years (2000–2025 in five-year increments)
- Covers the entire nine-county DVRPC region
- High spatial accuracy (approximately ±5 feet)
- Suitable for mapping, analysis, and GIS integration
Historical Aerial Imagery
DVRPC maintains an extensive archive of historical aerial photography, providing a valuable visual record of development patterns and land use change dating back to the mid-20th century. These images are widely used for research, planning, and long-term analysis.
Access & Availability
DVRPC’s aerial imagery resources are publicly available and can be accessed through the Data Catalog and partner platforms.
Tools & Platforms
DVRPC leverages industry-leading GIS technologies to support its work, including:
- Esri ArcGIS Platform (ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Enterprise)
- Open data and web mapping platforms
- Custom web applications and APIs
- Cloud-based geospatial tools and services
Collaboration & Support
DVRPC partners with counties, municipalities, state agencies, and regional stakeholders to:
- Provide technical GIS support and expertise
- Share data and best practices
- Enhance local and regional planning capacity
- Promote open data and transparency
Access GIS Data & Tools
Explore DVRPC’s GIS resources:
Contact
Have a question or need GIS support? Contact DVRPC’s GIS team to learn how we can support your planning, data, and analysis needs.