#United States #Indianapolis #Woolpert #Indiana #Orthoimagery

Woolpert's Commitment to Indiana

Woolpert, a leading architecture, engineering, and geospatial consulting firm, has been entrusted by the Indiana Geographic Information Office (IGIO) to procure aerial orthoimagery and lidar data for the entire state of Indiana. This decision follows a competitive bidding process and marks an important step toward advancing Indiana’s statewide imagery and lidar programs, designed to bolster public safety, environmental conservation, and economic development.

A Comprehensive Data Acquisition Plan

Under the new contract, Woolpert will embark on an ambitious data collection initiative spread over three years, starting in 2025. The team is set to gather over 37,000 square miles of digital orthoimagery at a stunning 6-inch resolution, along with Quality Level 1 (QL1) lidar data. In addition to this extensive coverage, Woolpert will also focus on the Lake Michigan coastline, covering around 120 square miles annually through 2028. This effort aligns with the mission of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources' Lake Michigan Coastal Program, ensuring that the data collected is both high quality and relevant to ongoing preservation efforts.

The QL1 lidar data acquisition will deliver 25 points per square meter, providing an unparalleled level of detail that can significantly improve infrastructure assessments and emergency planning efforts across the state.

A Resource for All

One of the standout features of this initiative is the commitment to public accessibility. All collected data will be available at no charge, allowing citizens and agencies alike to download or stream the information via the IGIO website and IndianaMap. This open-access model promises to enhance local government services and can significantly aid agencies in environmental planning, transportation, and land use policy.

Woolpert Project Manager Matt Worthy emphasized the vital role that geospatial data plays in local governance. He noted, "Local governments rely on geospatial data for countless processes, serving as a base map for a range of applications from planning to assessment and modeling. The excitement surrounding this program is palpable across all levels of government in Indiana."

The Evolution of Technology in Indiana

Brian Stevens, Woolpert’s Program Director, reflected on the transformation of Indiana’s imagery and lidar programs, highlighting how technology has evolved since he began his career. Initially, the focus was on producing black-and-white imagery, but the state is now leading the nation with advanced methodologies, including high-density lidar and co-collection of aerial imagery. "Indiana now serves as a model for the whole country, demonstrating how far technology has come in supporting geospatial initiatives for public service, economic growth, and environmental safeguarding," he stated.

Moving Forward

The commencement of data acquisition is anticipated for this spring, and as Woolpert gears up, there's an evident sense of optimism about the impact this project will have on the state’s infrastructure and planning capabilities.

About Woolpert

Founded in 1911, Woolpert has grown into an internationally renowned firm known for its innovative approaches in architecture, engineering, geospatial services, and strategic consulting. With more than 60 offices across five continents and a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, Woolpert continues to be a leader in the industry, having been recognized as a Top 100 ENR Global Design firm. The company is dedicated to providing effective solutions that cater to the expanding needs of public and private sector clients worldwide.

For more information about Woolpert's initiatives and their services, visit woolpert.com.