They’ll be two opportunities for residents to help improve OpenStreetMap. The first is an OpenStreetMap Mapathon designed to help new mappers learn OpenStreetMap.
OpenStreetMap is an open source map that anyone can edit. Users can add data to the map including information about their favorite restaurants, cultural venues, and more.
We took some time out to talk with Ian Dees to show how easy it is to edit your hood with OpenStreetMap. The video is a quick step-by-step walk-through of how to make edits to the map.
OpenStreetMap can be edited using a free tool called idEditor. The editor will automatically find your location when you sign in. At this point, you can search for a location in the address bar or just explore around the map.
For our example, I had noticed that one of my neighborhood restaurants wasn’t showing on the map.
Using the idEditor, Ian was able to show me how to quickly add information to the building.
If you’d like to help edit your neighborhood, then join us this weekend for the OpenStreetMap Map-a-thon.
The OpenStreetMap Map-a-thon is a national event designed to teach new mappers the tools to improve the OpenStreetMap in your area.
Chicago’s Map-a-thon will be April 20th and 21st at 1871 on the 12th floor of the Merchandise Mart, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza from noon to 6pm. Food and drinks will be provided by the Smart Chicago Collaborative.
You can RSVP at on the Chicago OpenStreetMap meetup page.
