Problem

Planning new electrical transmission corridors in environmentally sensitive areas requires balancing infrastructure needs with impacts to natural and built environments. Traditional planning workflows are often conducted by specialists using Desktop GIS, limiting transparency and public engagement. This project addressed the challenge of creating an accessible, web-based application that allows users to explore exisitng infrastructure and environmental data, propose new tranmission corridors, and evaluate potential impacts in real time. The goal was to demonstrate how geospatial web services can support interactive decision-making and public participation in infrastructure planning.

Analysis Procedures

The application was developed using the ArcGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript and integrates multiple ArcGIS Server services along with a geoprocessing service. The workflow began with data integration by connecting to several ArcGIS REST Feature Services, including datasets representing buildings, wildlife observations, monitoring sites, transmission lines, and park boundaries. These layers were configured to support both visualization and user interaction within the application. A custom user interface was then designed to provide a structured layout consisting of a primary map view and a dedicated information panel. Instead of relying on default popups, a controlled attribute display system was implemented using click events and hit testing, allowing feature information to be presented in a more organized and readable format. User input was enabled through sketch tools, allowing users to draw proposed transmission corridors directly on the map using a polyline tool. Controls were added to support resetting and redrawing proposed alignments, ensuring flexibility during scenario exploration. The geoprocessing workflow involved submitting user-drawn geometries to a remote ArcGIS Server geoprocessing service. Users could define buffer distances as input parameters, and the application managed asynchronous job execution, including status tracking and result retrieval. The outputs included a corridor buffer along with datasets identifying impacted buildings and monitoring sites. To support interpretation, the results were dynamically visualized using custom symbology. Distinct visual styles were applied to differentiate buffers and impacted features, and the application automatically zoomed to the analysis results to focus the user’s attention on the relevant area.

Results

The final application functioned as an interactive spatial decision-support tool that enabled users to explore infrastructure and environmental data layers, inspect feature attributes through a custom interface, and draw proposed transmission corridors directly on the map. Users could execute a server-side geoprocessing model from within the browser and immediately visualize potential impacts to buildings and monitoring sites. The project demonstrated successful integration of client-side web mapping with server-side spatial analysis, resulting in a seamless and responsive user experience for scenario evaluation.

Reflection

This project significantly expanded my understanding of web GIS development and enterprise geospatial workflows. I gained experience working directly with ArcGIS REST services, managing asynchronous geoprocessing tasks, and designing user interfaces that prioritize clarity and usability. One of the most valuable apsects of the project was implementing a full analysis pipeline from user input to server-side processing and back to client-side visualization. This reinforced the importance of structuring applications that are both technically robust and and accessible to non-technical users. Although the original services are no longer hosted, the project remains a strong example of integrating web mapping with geoprocessing services to support interactive planning and decision-making.

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Problem

As electric vehicle (EV) adoption increases, drivers must navigate a complex and evolving charging infrastructure that varies by charging speed, connector type, and availability. Understanding where compatible charging stations are located is critical for trip planning, yet this information is often fragmented and difficult to interpret. This project addressed the challenge of organizing and communicating EV charging infrastructure in a way that is both technically accurate and accessible to users. The goal was to develop an interactive web-based application that allows users to explore charging stations by type—Level 2 (J1772), DC fast charging (CCS), and North American Charging Standard (NACS)—while providing clear contextual information about each system.

Analysis Procedures

The application was developed using ArcGIS StoryMaps, integrating web maps powered by authoritative data from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center. Separate web maps were configured for each charging type, allowing for focused analysis of infrastructure distribution. These maps were symbolized and filtered to display only relevant stations, such as Level 2 chargers using J1772 connectors or DC fast chargers equipped with CCS or NACS connectors. This separation ensured clarity and allowed users to directly compare infrastructure availability across charging standards. Each web map was published as a service and embedded within the StoryMap as an interactive component. Users can pan, zoom, and explore charging locations dynamically, with the underlying data served through web services rather than static content. Narrative sections were developed alongside each map to explain the technical differences between charging systems. These sections describe voltage levels, power output, connector compatibility, and real-world usage patterns. For example, Level 2 charging is contextualized as the most common solution for residential and workplace charging, while DC fast charging is presented as critical for long-distance travel along major corridors. The StoryMap was structured to guide users through a logical progression—from general EV charging concepts to specific infrastructure types—allowing them to build understanding while interacting with live geospatial data.

Results

The final product is an interactive web application that combines geospatial data with narrative explanation to support understanding of EV charging infrastructure. Users can explore charging station locations by connector type and charging level, gaining insight into how infrastructure varies across regions and use cases. The separation of charging types into distinct interactive maps improves usability and allows for clearer comparisons between Level 2 and DC fast charging networks. The application was developed using ArcGIS StoryMaps, integrating web maps powered by authoritative data from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative FuelsBy integrating live web services, the application functions as a dynamic tool rather than a static presentation. Users are able to interact directly with authoritative datasets, making the application useful not only for communication but also for exploratory analysis. Data Center. The project effectively demonstrates how web GIS can be used to simplify complex, technical topics and present them in a way that is both informative and engaging.

ArcGIS StoryMap Printable Version (hosted version not permanently available).

Reflection

This project reinforced the importance of designing GIS applications with the end user in mind. While EV charging infrastructure involves technical concepts such as voltage, amperage, and connector standards, these details must be communicated clearly to be useful. Developing this StoryMap required balancing technical accuracy with clarity and usability. Structuring the application into distinct sections for each charging type helped reduce complexity and allowed users to focus on one concept at a time. The project also highlighted the role of web services in modern GIS communication. By embedding interactive maps connected to live datasets, the application provides a more meaningful experience than static maps, enabling users to explore and interpret data on their own. Overall, this work demonstrates my ability to integrate geospatial data, web services, and narrative design into a cohesive application that supports both education and decision-making.