A Geographical Information System (GIS) combines mapping and database technology to create a centralized spatial information hub that can be shared interdepartmentally, from city or county administration staff to the public works department, the assessor’s office and beyond. 

As GPS data collection has become more sophisticated and accurate, so too has GIS information. And never before has accurate geographic data been more important to cities, counties and other entities. Whether it’s calculating the miles of sewer line or locating and inventorying every catch basin in a city, having quick and easy access to the information is a time and money saver. 

Services

• GIS Technical Services
• GIS Needs Analysis and Implementation Planning
• Utility Mapping/Infrastructure Management
• GPS Infrastructure Data Collection
• GASB 34 – Capital Asset Compliance
• Asset Management and CMMS Implementation
• Internet and Mobile GIS Solutions

GIS Technical Services

In addition to our general GIS services – storm water management, well head protection, emergency services, E911 address mapping and comprehensive planning – Bolton & Menk provides technical assistance for ongoing GIS projects. This assistance can include parcel and utility map construction, database integration, needs assessments and data platform conversion.

GIS Needs Analysis and Implementation Planning

Bolton & Menk works closely with governmental entities to determine current mapping ability, evaluate the GIS needs of each department and provide recommendations for the implementation of a system designed to meet their needs.

Utility Mapping/Infrastructure Management

Utility maps and utility data are developed using existing utility schematic maps, project plans or collection of utility infrastructure by GPS methods. The client’s staff can easily update these interactive maps as infrastructure changes demand.

GPS Infrastructure Data Collection

Using GPS, a complete utility infrastructure inventory of the visible structures can be collected. As well as obtaining coordinates, characteristics such as type, size and condition can also be entered in the data collector during the inventory process. This additional information is beneficial for GIS mapping as well as developing a utility infrastructure asset management system. The handheld GPS units used by Bolton & Menk can obtain accuracy from within one meter to within one foot.

GASB 34 – Capital Asset Compliance

Governmental Accounting Standards Board Statement 34 (GASB 34), requires state and local governments to include the value of their infrastructure assets, road, bridges, water and sewer facilities, and dams in their annual financial reports. Bolton & Menk’s GIS service will help you inventory, monitor and assess the value of these elements for reporting purposes.

Asset Management and CMMS Implementation

Bolton & Menk can integrate asset management strategies with a Computerized Maintenance and Management System (CMMS) to provide tools for recording asset information, inspection results and historical events. Instant assessment information is available in the form of data screens, reports and map generation.

Internet and Mobile GIS Solutions

Bolton & Menk has designed a proprietary web-based GIS that provides a centralized spatial information hub that is accessible to anyone with access to an Internet connection. A web-based GIS is easy to use, cost effective, secure and can be tailored to your needs. Data from multiple sources, including county, state and federal organizations can be utilized within one system, so that time consuming tasks such as generating maps, creating labels and finding construction plans can be completed in a matter of seconds. Mobile applications are also available to improve efficiency and productivity in the field.

Sign Management and Retroreflectivity Complaince

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has established new safety requirements that affect most street and trafἀc signs on roads open to the public. These requirements are stated in the Minnesota Manual on Uniform Trafἀc Control Devices (MMUTCD) which is required to be followed by Minnesota State Statute. This rule provides new guidelines regarding the visibility of signs at night. Find out more here