The Power of Data
Wednesday, March 19th, 2008The vast democratization of information is making the tough work of reinvigorating cities and crafting affordable housing policies a little bit easier. A new report released today shows just how powerful detailed, parcel-level data can be in pushing for more inclusive and equitable change in communities.
The parcel-level information many cities now make publicly available can help head off foreclosures, improve vacant lots, build on affordable housing initiatives and integrate neighborhood efforts into a larger regional framework.
PolicyLink senior associate Sarah Treuhaft co-authored the report, “Transforming Community Development with Land Information Systems.” (free download)
“To make the right choices for their neighborhoods, people need the right information,” Treuhaft said. “Detailed, accessible information is critical, whether in the current national foreclosure crisis or ongoing gentrification struggles. With more and better data, we can develop more effective strategies to solve many of the biggest challenges facing America’s neighborhoods.”
The report was also co-authored by the Urban Institute’s G. Thomas Kingsley and released and funded by the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy.
Additional Resources:
To read a Net-Squared interview about the convergence of GIS and E-Advocacy, click here.
PolicyLink Community Mapping page
National Neighborhood Indicators Partnership
Northeast Ohio Community and Neighborhood Data for Organizing (NEOCANDO)
Cartographic Modeling Laboratory, University of Pennsylvania
