Geographical Information Systems

BKI was tasked with the migration and development of assorted CAD data sources in a GIS format including road centerlines, water and sewer utilities, and various political and jurisdictional boundaries. 

The road centerline data was developed using line features from aerial photography with no attribute information. Attribute information was transferred from US Census data and then validated using parcel address data to correct the address ranges. 
The water and sewer data was converted from a broad assortment of CAD data which was combined to create the complete system. Available attribute data was input from the CAD data and BKI managed the GPS location of hydrants, water valves, and sewer manholes. 

Boundary data was corrected to match the parcel boundary data and developed as polygon feature from the original CAD data. BKI developed the SDE Geodatabase (GDB) model for the migration of the CAD data to the GIS, implemented the SDE GDB at the city, coordinated the required system hardware and software upgrades, and implemented a new work order management software package for the Public Works and Public Utilities departments, which was fully integrated with the GIS.

This project involved the complete development and implementation of a GIS-based asset management system for the Port of Shreveport-Bossier and was divided into six major tasks including 1) the development of a comprehensive GIS project plan, 2) development of a data model to accommodate the spatial data, 3) obtain aerial photography and other regional GIS data to be used as a base map and incorporated into the data model, 4) develop GIS data for port assets based on as-built drawing data, 5) scan all as-built paper drawings and develop a database system for retrieval of the drawings, and 6) install the system on port computers and provide training to designated personnel.

The comprehensive assessment included evaluating and documenting the Port’s existing computer systems and data. BKI documented the Port organization, work processes, data flow, hardware and software systems, and existing GIS data sources. We also met with individual departments to determine the needs for GIS and the types of functions that would increase work performance and efficiency. From this information, BKI developed a project plan with schedules, budgets, and a detailed description of the work to be performed.

Once the plan was accepted by the Port, BKI began the process of developing and integrating GIS data into a common GIS format, specifically a GeoDatabase. Using high resolution color aerial photography as a base overlay, BKI used as-built drawings to develop asset data for the Port including property data, roadways, railways, buildings, and all utilities on and around Port property. Where possible, assets were input using meets and bounds survey-grade information to provide optimal accuracy of the data. When survey as-built information was not available, assets were drawn relative to the aerial photography from the best available information.

While the GIS data was being developed, BKI also had all paper as-built drawings scanned and cataloged in a database retrieval system. Finally, BKI provided a complete installation, setup, and training package to finish the project along with six month of on-going phone support and data update services.

BKI was the prime consultant for a project to develop a new GIS-based Louisiana State Bicycle Suitability Map. The project used the Bicycle Level of Service Model to objectively assess how Louisiana’s state highway network functions for cyclists.

The primary product was an improved state bicycle map indicating the relative ease of use of state highway based on model results. Details about significant water crossings and other barriers, important contact information, and rights and responsibility information was included to enhance the product into a comprehensive education and resource tool for cyclists.

To produce the map, the team undertook a comprehensive evaluation of existing bicycle modeling software tools available, and compared the data input needs to those data elements available for the state highway network, and selected a recommended approach for the project. Using innovative approaches, BKI developed methodologies to fill gaps in information while staying on budget and on schedule.
Working with a Technical Advisory Committee comprised of LADOTD, Metropolitan Planning Organizations and cyclists, the team identified suggested cross-state routes and critical links. The TAC also provided valuable insight into information gaps and problems, enabling the project team to add value by improving the accuracy of the state’s existing state highway network database.

The BKI team developed a dynamic GIS based version of the BLOS, allowing for interactive depiction of the model results within the GIS platform, providing the Department with a tool they can continue to use in the future to implement their Complete Streets Policy.