How can you use mapping tools to design a riverfront?

1 Mapping benefits

Mapping tools can help you understand the context and characteristics of your riverfront site. You can use them to collect and analyze data on the topography, hydrology, vegetation, land use, infrastructure, and demographics of the area. You can also use them to identify opportunities and challenges, such as flood risk, erosion, habitat restoration, access, and recreation. Mapping tools can help you create scenarios and evaluate the impacts of different design options on the environment and the community.

2 Mapping methods

When designing a riverfront, there are many types of mapping tools that can be used, depending on the needs and preferences. Geographic information systems (GIS) are software applications that store, manipulate, and display spatial data, allowing users to create maps, perform spatial analysis, and overlay different layers of information. Digital elevation models (DEMs) represent the terrain surface and can be used to model water flow, drainage, and flooding patterns of the riverfront site. They also generate 3D views and contours of the landscape. Sketch maps are hand-drawn or digital sketches that display the main features and elements of the riverfront site; they can be used to express design concepts, ideas, and visions as well as communicate with stakeholders, clients, and collaborators.

3 Mapping tools

When it comes to mapping tools, there are many options to choose from depending on your budget, skills, and preferences. ArcGIS is a comprehensive GIS platform offering a range of tools and functions for spatial analysis and mapping. It can create interactive maps, perform complex calculations, and share results online. Plus, it has a variety of extensions and plugins to enhance capabilities. QGIS is a free and open-source GIS software with a user-friendly interface and rich set of features. It can create and edit maps, perform spatial analysis, and export data in various formats. Additionally, it supports plugins and extensions to add more functionality. Google Earth is a web-based application allowing you to explore the world in 3D. You can view satellite imagery, aerial photos, and street views of your riverfront site. You can also create and edit placemarks, paths, polygons, and images. Lastly, SketchUp is a 3D modeling software that allows you to design and visualize your riverfront site in 3D. It can also import and export data from other sources such as GIS, DEMs or images.

4 Mapping tips

To make the most of your mapping tools, you should begin by defining your objectives and scope to ensure you select the right tools and methods for your project. You should also collect and organize your data in a systematic and consistent way, while verifying its quality and accuracy. When it comes to analyzing and visualizing your data, you should use appropriate scales, symbols, colors, and labels to convey the information. Lastly, you should use your tools to share and communicate your data with your audience, using clear language and providing context and explanation for your maps.

5 Mapping examples

To inspire you, here are some examples of riverfront design projects that used mapping tools. The High Line Canal Conservancy in the Denver metropolitan area used GIS and DEMs to map the canal's hydrology, ecology, history, and opportunities. They also created sketch maps to illustrate their vision and goals for the canal's future. The Chicago Department of Transportation used GIS and Google Earth to map the conditions, constraints, and potential of the Chicago Riverwalk, a 1.25-mile-long promenade. SketchUp was also used to design and visualize the riverwalk's segments and features. The Los Angeles River Revitalization Corporation employed GIS and DEMs to map the Los Angeles River's watershed, floodplain, and opportunities. Sketch maps were also used to communicate their vision and strategies for the river's transformation.