Summary

BTS needed to create a geospatial layer/database with geospatial metadata. The metadata is then incorporated into the Intermodal Freight Database, which is a National Geospatial Data Asset (NGDA) layer part of the Transportation Theme, which comprise the NSDI. The database will be used both internally at BTS and the Department, and to be released publicly through BTS’National Transportation Atlas Database (NTAD). 

Problem and Solution

BTS was charged with the development and maintenance of an Intermodal Transportation Database that establishes and maintains a transportation database for all modes of transportation. Also, it is suitable for analyses carried out by the Federal Government, the States, and metropolitan planning organizations. Finally, it contains: information on the volumes and patterns of movement of goods, including local,interregional, and international movement, by all modes of transportation, intermodal combinations, and relevant classification. Also, information on the volumes and patterns of movement of people, including local,interregional, and international movements, by all modes of transportation (including bicycle and pedestrian modes), intermodal combinations, and relevant classification. Furthermore, information on the location and connectivity of transportation facilities and services. Finally, a national accounting of expenditures and capital stocks on each mode of transportation and intermodal combination.

Xentity worked to establish new national data layers. We started by providing database design. With Xentity’s approved model and mapping of sources to fields and feature classes, we created a source data structure. Also, Xentity provided database development. We developed ETLs in ArcGIS ModelBuilder and Python per the inventory acceptance criteria to establish one database.

Outcome and Benefit

As a result, Xentity helped develop the NTAD Liquid Bulk Geospatial Layer. This layer will ultimately be incorporated into the Intermodal Freight Database. Ultimately, this allows internal and public use, at BTS, USDOT and the NTAD.