The most recent funding act for federal surface transportation projects called MAP-21 has an exciting focus for firms like Cloudpoint.
Most notably, MAP-21 requires 3D modeling/virtual construction and visualization technology for all eligible projects. Section 1304 of the legislation authorizes as much as 100 percent federal financing for projects that contain innovative technologies such as "digital 3-dimensional modeling." This is a boon for firms that are experienced in both GIS and BIM technologies and can deliver a project quickly and efficiently using them. While the law is complex, the language surrounding its technology mandate is not. BIM, LiDAR, and GIS projects will be funded much more easily by the federal government than non-modeled, non-mapped projects. Planning and approval for 3D projects is also streamlined under the new law.
MAP-21 creates a performance-based, multimodal program to address the challenges facing our national transportation system such as improving safety, maintaining infrastructure condition, reducing traffic congestion, improving efficiency of the system and freight movement, protecting the environment, and reducing delays in project delivery. To do so, MAP-21 builds on and refines many of the highway, transit, bike, and pedestrian programs and policies established by the federal government in 1991.
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http://www.cenews.com/magazine-article-cenews.com-1-2013-map_21__an_opportunity_for_gis_experienced_engineering_firms-9162.html
