AWWA JAW11010

The city of Houston, Texas recently completed installation of an interactive computerized data management system for use by the public works, tax, planning, police, fire, and public health departments. This article describes the four-year process of assembling the system, which includes a continuous planimetric map covering 1550 square kilometers (600 sq mi), land ownership and land use information about some 554,000 parcels, and complete information on the water, sanitary, and storm sewer systems, the road network, and bridges. Accurate graphic and nongraphic data are available and can be updated to keep pace with the city's growth. Details are given on data collection, entry, validation, and evaluation. Costs associated with city operation will be reduced through use of the accurate and consistent system. Includes 5 references, tables, figures.