The NJTPA has recently completed a project that centrally locates numerous geographic and related non-geographic data collected by, and stored at the NJTPA. These data sources are used by the NJTPA to inform sound decision-making. Some of the data items originate at the NJTPA but many are generated by other agencies ranging from national to local. The main product of this project is a new enterprise-class geospatial database that regularizes how data items are stored, updated, and exchanged. This product is an example of interagency coordination in action - as mentioned above numerous local, regional, and state partner agencies were and are integral contributors.
The database helps to ensure that data is current, accurate and suitable for particular uses - by NJTPA staff, NJTPA subregions, partner agencies and the general public. The Enterprise GIS (EGIS) database allows staff to respond to data requests more efficiently. As appropriate, EGIS information is available for download online at the NJTPA Geoportal (Still Undergoing Refinement), the public-facing website containing the NJTPA's data catalog. Authorized users are be able to draw directly from the EGIS database to produce tables, maps, and conduct their own analyses. During the formal Fall 2010 rollout of the EGIS, authorized users will be provided user identifications and passwords as well as training.
This effort is meant to markedly strengthen the information foundation for the NJTPA and its partners, ultimately supporting wise planning decisions for northern New Jersey. Stay tuned for updates, contributor maintenance schedules, training, information sessions and improvements.
Contributor Maintenance Schedules
As this will continue to be a joint effort with partner agencies, contributors will be contacted during the first two week of each NJTPA fiscal quarter for data updates. Contributors should expect correspondace containing exchange instructions during the following dates of each year:
- First Quarter: July 1st to July 15th
- Second Quarter: October 1st to October 15th
- Third Quarter: January 1st to January 15th
- Fourth Quarter: April 1st to April 15th
Zenobia Fields, the NJTPA’s Principal Planner for GIS is project manager for the EGIS effort, Consultant support is provided by AECOM, Inc. For further information, contact Ms. Fields at (973) 639-8426 or zfields@njtpa.org.