Development of a geographic information system (GIS) for abandoned industrial properties in the Mahoning River Corridor /

Abstract

One field in which the application of geographic information system technology has literally exploded in the past five years is environmental studies. In this field, it is often necessary to assimilate positional information on a number of variables that can impact environmental quality, often over a wide geographic area. GIS technology is particularly useful in studies ofthe distribution and movement of pollutants in the environment. The objective of this project was to map the location and characteristics of "brownfield" sites surveyed in the Mahoning River Corridor Redevelopment Study and hence to promote the reuse of former industrial properties, in lieu of "greenfield" sites (or virgin land), for new industrial and commercial development. The base map was developed using USGS DLG maps and then the site maps were created and added using AutoCAD tools to represent the existing geographic conditions of the Mahoning Valley. A coherent data base on abandoned industrial properties was created that includes information on such site characteristics as access to roads, railways, water lines and sewer lines, presence of pollutants, and ownership. With such a large geographic area of interest, the use of digital maps and files in developing this GIS has created a new way to quickly provide information on available properties to prospective investors. This GIS database can furnish input information for various market analyses and development of remediation andlor site improvement plans. This geographic information system is intended to serve as a starting point for the development of a comprehensive database on brownfield properties in the Mahoning River Corridor.