Caliper Corporation (Maptitude, TransCAD) Joins the USGS Coalition

The USGS Coalition is an alliance of more than 80 organizations united by a commitment to the continued vitality of the USGS and its ability to provide critical data and services to the nation. The Coalition supports increased federal investment in USGS programs that underpin responsible natural resource stewardship, improve resilience to natural and human-induced hazards, and contribute to the long-term health, security, and prosperity of the nation.

Throughout the year, the USGS Coalition organizes and participates in activities and exhibitions that support the work of the USGS, and sponsors science briefings for policymakers.

Caliper Corporation mapping software has a long, productive relationship with the USGS. The Maptitude and TransCAD applications directly support USGS digital elevation model data, topographic maps, and aerial imagery.

Innovative use of USGS data within the Caliper product suite includes the calculation of roadway grades for use within transportation models that estimate infrastructure needs 10, 20, and 30 years into the future. Utilities developed for TransCAD calculate the percent grade for each street by polling the USGS web server that gives out the elevation information for each coordinate requested.

"The USGS plays a critical role in helping us understand the environment of the USA. USGS data are a fundamental input to our transportation models and traffic simulations as we explore the impacts of self-driving vehicles and smart city air quality management. With nearly a 35-year relationship with USGS, we look forward to growing our collaborative efforts with the organization through our membership in the USGS Coalition," said Vice President Stewart Berry.