GIS and Transportation: Canadian Perspective

There has been a significant interest in the application of geographic information systems (GIS) to address the special needs of the transportation industry during the past several years. Canada has been an aknowledged early leader in the development and application of GIS, particularly in the resource area. Extensive base mapping programs were initiated at both the federal and provincial government levels. Research into the special requirements of transportation agencies has not received the same level of attention and funding in Canada to date as that evidenced in the United States. Both countries have similar requirements, although they are attacking the problems from slightly differing perspectives. There is a strong case to be made for future cooperative efforts between the two countries.