Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

PWD makes extensive use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze and visualize information about our watersheds. GIS software enables one to view individual or multiple physical features as a series of stacked, two-dimensional "layers" that form accurate maps and diagrams. The capability of this software encompasses many other data analysis functions; for example, GIS can be used to trace sewer routes, find how much of a watershed area is made up of certain types of land uses, or determine which land parcels are located adjacent to creeks.

Downloadable Maps

A collection of map resources is available as screen resolution images for online viewing or high resolution PDF files suitable for printing.

Interactive Maps

View online maps of Philadelphia's watersheds, sewer areas, rivers and streams. PWD's "Big Green Map" shows the locations of all our completed and in-design green infrastructure projects, including stormwater tree trenches, rain gardens, stormwater bumpouts, swales and more. Individual feature layers can be turned on and off, allowing the viewer to create personalized maps and views of Philadelphia's watersheds.

KML Files

Keyhole Markup Language (KML) files for Google Earth and other KML-compatible software are a set of rules for encoding documents electronically to express geographic annotation and visualization of maps and three-dimensional browsers.

GIS Data Request Form

Complete this request form to inquire about available GIS data. PWD may, at its sole discretion, make certain datasets available to outside parties.