Men may not ask for directions and women allegedly can’t read maps, but when given the chance to view the highly detailed maps reflecting data gathered for myregion.org, no one can resist looking at them.

A proven showstopper, the maps are a critical element of this unique analysis of Central Florida because of their intricate detail and what they reveal about the region. Specifically, the maps provide a visual language or translation of the region’s strengths and how the seven counties interact with each other and with other communities. The map system is multi-layered, providing a stratified view of metro areas, the region, super regions, the nation and the world. For instance, the maps display major trade connections, principal trade routes, exchanges and links, and economic characteristics, highlighting what we have and conversely what’s missing.

Segmented according to the 13 issues being studied, the maps provide a variety of information about each area including past and current trends. For example, the map on Development provides an interesting view of a 1960s trend when shopping malls were built (especially along the I-95 east corridor), followed by two decades of no mall construction at all. Yet another surge of mall building followed more prominently in the Orlando MSA.

Click here to view the map.

“The maps were created based on expected and unexpected facts and characteristics collected over many months by the Leadership Council and the volunteers on the Technical Committee,” explained Randy Lyon, Development Template Co-Chair. “We’ve created these maps to serve as our guide to identifying where Central Florida is in regard to the number of schools, hospitals and population to name a few of the issues being analyzed. The maps provide the view we need to assess where we are and where we need to go as a region.”

The maps will be on view both in large scale map format and via laptop computer at the upcoming series of Essential Activity Workshops on July 9 through 12 at the Orlando Science Center. Each table will be equipped with a computer to allow participants a close up and easy-to-access view of the maps. For more information about the workshops, contact Jennifer Amodt at 407.835.2449 or via email at jen.amodt@orlando.org or visit our website at www.myregion.org.