Baltimore’s New Open Data Hub Features Data Visualization, StoryMaps

The city of Baltimore, MD has migrated its existing open data portal to a new platform – the Open Data Baltimore Hub. The new platform includes dashboards, data visualizations and the use of “StoryMaps” – a tool from Esri that enables publishers to merge data with maps, text and other multimedia content to tell stories. The updates stem from the 2011 launch of Open Baltimore – an initiative designed to make more data from city government agencies publicly available.

“The updated open data portal reflects Baltimore City’s commitment to data and transparency,” Baltimore Chief Information Officer Todd Carter, said. “We trust that this update will assist other organizations and communities that also use the datasets. Open Baltimore is shaped for government and the community to use the technology to promote transparency, improve performance and enhance citizen engagement.”

The site houses hundreds of government datasets, which are regularly updated by City agencies. Users can interact with data, download data files, analyze and visualize data with tools, and build apps. The new hub will make it more apparent what data is being provided by City agencies, as opposed to from the public.

“The Open Data Baltimore Hub is a powerful tool for transparency and accountability within our city government,” said Baltimore Mayor, Brandon M. Scott. “It is our duty to ensure that city government works for our residents. I encourage Baltimoreans to take advantage of this tool to keep track of the ins and outs of the city and explore the new features as we work together to build a more open and accountable city.”