GIS Services for Roadway Network System (RNS)

Client: Virginia Department of Transportation

In 2004, VDOT began a comprehensive project to migrate and upgrade its roadway network management and location referencing systems. In its previous environment, GIS-based analysis capabilities were difficult to integrate and enable for enterprise access. The new system implemented is called the Roadway Network System (RNS).It is based on an industry-standard approach to location referencing models and management, relational database systems, and a Web-enabled enterprise approach for enabling spatial/GIS applications. GeoDecisions provided data model design consulting and LRS expertise to the RNS project.

Part of VDOT’s RNS project includes developing a series of support, maintenance, and application modules that share integrated, multipurpose components that are Web-enabled, expandable, and easy to use.One of the modules developed for RNS is a SLD application. GeoDecisions adapted and customized the SLD application for VDOT that was originally developed for VTrans and NHDOT. A code sharing agreement allowed GeoDecisions to deploy SLD applications to these states, each time adding to the core functionality.

This interactive, Web-based tool helps users view and analyze information related to roadway geometrics and infrastructure. The tool displays business data on bridges, traffic, crashes, and improvement projects, as well as other cultural features and events along VDOT routes. The SLD application directly interfaces with VDOT’s new RNS to improve the quality of location referencing data and is accessible to users throughout VDOT.

Allowing users to navigate seamlessly across and among business applications, including the SLD, with the RNS framework as the integrating mechanism, can provide users with significant benefits.