Issue link: https://resources.esri.ca/i/747765
Solution To address this challenge, EIA engaged Esri Canada to develop a Web-based Utility Locator application that allows staff and contractors to quickly access accurate, up-to-date information about the airport's utility assets. They selected Esri's ArcGIS solution because it allowed EIA to deliver information over the Web without requiring additional user training, which was a critical factor as many of the target users did not come from a technical background. Using ArcGIS for Server technology, EIA integrated numerous databases containing information on the airport's utility assets including airside and groundside electrical systems, natural gas, water, stormwater and sewer networks, as well as construction projects, road networks, buildings and other geographic data into a geodatabase. The application was built using the ArcGIS API for Microsoft Silverlight, an easy-to-use application programming interface that allows developers to quickly integrate interactive maps into Web applications. The system enables EIA to provide role-based user access to specific information and tools within the application, and maintain data integrity and accuracy. Utility locators within the Technical Services team could fill out forms through the application, while project delivery staff was given secure, read-only access. Benefits The Utility Locator has significantly increased EIA's efficiency in responding to utility locate requests. Users can now view all above-ground and buried airport assets and their location through the application. Using the GIS over the CAD system takes far less time to create drawings and deliver information to field staff. This helps keep construction schedules on track. The quality of locate reports has also improved immensely. Staff can now produce more insightful and complete reports about a site, enabling better decisions. They can also create drawings that look exactly like the site in context and scale. Having a consistent view of data also fosters better communication and teamwork among staff and contractors. With all critical data at their fingertips, architects, planners and engineers involved in different parts of the expansion can see the overall picture and organize their workflows so that the project proceeds smoothly. The self-service portal provides an easy-to-use map of basic airport information such as buildings, roads and parking lots. It integrates aerial imagery and current datafor effectively communicating EIA's development plan and progress to the public. The application also displays construction boundaries, allowing staff to check for conflicts between consecutive projects. Edmonton International Airport GIS Takes Flight | Esri Canada 2 Users can view all above-ground and buried airport assets and their location through the Web application. The Utility Locator makes it easier for contractors to analyze the site and understand the risk before they put the back hoe into the ground. "GIS is a platform for increasing efficiency, improving communication and collaboration. It enables complex construction projects such as EIA's expansion to be carried out intelligently and quickly, without posing a risk to facility operators and travellers." Corinne Kozak Technical Services Manager, EIA