In an effort to provide greater information accessibility and transparency to its citizens, Lynchburg City has launched the Open Data Portal page. Although most of the information was previously available on the city’s website, many felt it was difficult to locate. Having all of the information in one place will simplify the process for anyone looking for public data about topics such as building permits, business licenses, development projects, real estate parcels and property transfers. In addition, geospatial data such as political boundaries, enterprise zones, school locations, historic districts, waterways and transportation infrastructure is available.
In addition, the portal will be a time saver for city employees. The city is frequently contacted by individuals requesting data that now is available on the portal page. Having the information online and easily accessible allows residents to retrieve data at their convenience, while allowing city staff to be more productive.
Community Development data, such as building permits, licenses, development projects, violation cases, and contractors as well as real estate parcels and transfers are updated every evening. Crime statistics are provided monthly by the Lynchburg Police Department. The geospatial information is also regularly updated. New data sets are easily added to the existing website making future expansions of the site possible. Contact information for each of the offices that provide data for the portal is listed as well, should clarification be needed. There is a link on the website as well where feedback can be provided as to ways to improve the site and user experience.
The portal can be accessed at http://www.lynchburgva.gov/open-data-portal.