Data Spotlight: Clean Streets

DataLA
DataLA
Published in
2 min readOct 26, 2016

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti took his commitment to clean streets to the next level when he signed Executive Directive №8, ordering that every block in LA be given a quarterly cleanliness score. Using geocoded imagery and a metrics-based rating system referred to as a cleanliness index, Los Angeles Sanitation (LASAN) is able to identify abandoned waste hot spots and better deploy of clean up crews. The data generated from the Clean Streets Initiative is translated into an interactive storymap that lives on the GeoHub and is among our most popular maps with over 31,000 views!

We worked to make this map both helpful and visually pleasing and we’re excited to announce that our hard work paid off: the Clean Streets Index map is the newest addition to Esri’s Maps We Love.

In Esri’s words, “The Clean Streets L.A. map does more than provide data about litter. We love this map because it helps build healthy relationships between citizens and government in Los Angeles.”

We are thrilled to be included in the collection and are grateful to our partners at Esri who provided insights and tips on how to make our maps simple, beautiful, and engaging.

Many of these helpful tips came from Jennifer Bell, an Esri mapping guru who works closely with the Mayor’s Data Team. Bell believes that “A great map immediately captures your attention and tells a meaningful story. The key is to keep it simple. If you choose the right color, transparency, shape, and size, you’ll see your data come to life. Keep your audience and their interests in mind and your map will open the door to further exploration.”

We’re always looking for mapping inspiration! Share with us the maps you love in the comments section.

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DataLA
DataLA
Editor for

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