Managing the Future with Geospatial Technology: GTG’s GIS Initiatives for the Port of Houston, TX
In 2020, the Port of Houston, TX, sought expertise to develop a vision and strategy for advancing its geospatial technology, particularly for asset management. After a competitive RFP, the Port selected GHD and GHD’s partner GTG to create a plan for Asset Management and Geospatial technologies.
As a 25-mile-long industrial complex with nearly 200 private and public terminals, the Port of Houston is integral to the 52-mile Houston Ship Channel, connecting Galveston to Houston. It ranks among the largest and busiest ports in the United States, supporting international trade, hosting the nation’s largest petrochemical complex, and generating over $339 billion in statewide economic value.
The Need for GIS Advancement
The port’s strategic location and extensive infrastructure make it vital to the regional and national economies. Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) play a critical role in supporting its logistics, asset management, and emergency response activities. However, to maintain its competitive edge and operational excellence, the port required enhancements to its GIS capabilities.
GTG began by developing a comprehensive GIS Strategic Plan to maximize the efficiency of the port’s geospatial investments. This process involved:
- Conducting a detailed assessment of current GIS capabilities
- Engaging with stakeholders to identify operational challenges and specific needs
- Highlighting areas for improvement, such as data integration, workflow optimization, and user access to critical information
The resulting plan provided a clear roadmap for advancing GIS infrastructure, aligning technology investments with the port’s long-term goals for sustainability and operational excellence.
Improving Utility Asset Management
Following the Strategic Plan, GTG focused on enhancing utility asset management through GIS data creation and updates. Key initiatives included:
- Updating data for fiber optic cables, pipelines, drains, sewer lines, and critical infrastructure
- Filling gaps in permits for channel operations
- Integrating grant funding data for project asset features
- Updating parcel data to include assessment statuses
GTG’s process included collaboration with port staff to clarify asset attributes, streamline workflows, and enhance data accuracy. Leveraging CAD and as-built drawing references, GTG meticulously updated the port’s GIS datasets. These improvements provided up-to-date, reliable information, directly benefiting the port’s water, sewer, stormwater, electric, and telecom departments. The integration of this data streamlined maintenance activities, improved utilities-related response times, and enabled more efficient infrastructure management.
Mobile Hydrant Inspection Tool
Additionally, GTG was instrumental in developing for the port a mobile experience for hydrant inspections, which increased the capacity of the port to monitor their hydrant system, improve safety, and remain in compliance with Coast Guard regulations. This process involved the implementation of the ArcGIS Experience Builder mobile application, and GTG integrated this tool for the emergency services officer (ESO) responsible for the port in emergency situations.
Transformative Results
GTG’s collaboration with the Port of Houston delivered significant advancements in its GIS capabilities:
- The GIS Strategic Plan established a clear path for future technology investments and operations.
- Enhanced utility asset data improved accuracy, usability, and cross-departmental benefits.
- The mobile hydrant inspection tool increased safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.
GTG’s Co-Founder, Curtis Hinton, emphasized the importance of GIS in managing complex port operations:
“A port is a highly complex system of activities and assets. Geospatial technology is imperative for managing these elements effectively. Our partnership with the Port of Houston empowered their GIS staff with expertise and resources to meet expansive geospatial needs, supporting their strategic vision.”
Through these efforts, GTG enabled the Port of Houston to harness geospatial technology for better decision-making, streamlined operations, and long-term growth. This project exemplifies the transformative impact of strategic GIS implementation, ensuring the port remains a leading hub for international trade and commerce.
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To learn more about GIS Services from Geographic Technologies Group, please feel free to reach out. You can speak to our team by calling 888.757.4222 or emailing moreinfo@geotg.com.
