State and local policy makers make decisions that shape the future of the Boston metropolitan region. MAPC’s Data Center and GIS Lab work to provide policy makers with timely and accurate information to make sound decisions. In addition, accurate data allow the public to benchmark government performance and hold elected officials and policy makers accountable for their actions. Individual businesses and households also need data to make decisions: where to site a business, or buy a home, or raise a family. Data about our residents, business, and infrastructure is critical if we are to strategically target our limited resources.

To meet these needs, The Data Center and GIS Lab provide regional leadership in data compilation, analysis and presentation. The Data Center serves as a repository of up-to-date demographic, socioeconomic, and other planning-related data. As an official U.S. Census Bureau affiliate, the Data Center also works on several projects related to the U.S. Census including preparations for decennial censuses and supporting accurate population estimates. The GIS lab is responsible for implementing and providing ongoing support of a region-wide Geographical Information System (GIS). The Lab implements and maintains a regional GIS data library and manages, coordinates and supports GIS resources and activities for communities and organizations.

MAPC, in partnership with the Boston Indicators Project, maintains the MetroBoston DataCommon website. This online mapping tool makes available a wealth of data about cities and towns in Massachusetts. The site features annually updated Community Snapshots of MAPC’s 101 communities, a regional map gallery, and a powerful DataMap Tool enabling users to create their own maps.

The Data Center and GIS Lab oversee the production of MAPC’s Annual Report and Calendar. This colorful publication features maps, photos, and charts illustrating issues of regional significance in the Boston metropolitan region. Previous calendars have featured maps highlighting clean energy technologies, the Community Preservation Act, impervious surfaces, earthquake locations, housing unit permits and comprehensive permits. The calendar is available by request or can be downloaded from the MetroBoston DataCommon Regional Map Gallery.

The combination of the Data Center's statistical database and the GIS lab's geographic data library gives MAPC excellent tools for analysis and forecasting. MAPC has the ability to adopt new technologies for its planning programs and services, greatly enhancing how regional information is presented to our member cities and towns. By developing better ways to research, collect, access, and present information about our region, the Data Center and GIS lab are helping Greater Boston to be prepared for the challenges that face regional planning in the 21st century.

Northeast Homeland Security Region 85 Community
GIS program

MAPC functions as the lead Regional Planning Agency, in collaboration with three other RPAs, to implement an 85 community GIS project for public safety officials. Click here to read more about this project.