GCS Research developed a comprehensive geodatabase for the City of Columbia Falls, Montana, specifically for the Public Works Department. This project involved the conversion of existing AutoCAD utility drawings into a feature class format, ensuring a robust representation of the city’s utility systems.
Key Project Highlights
- Data Migration: GCS successfully migrated the City’s water, sewer, and stormwater AutoCAD files into the new geodatabase.
- Custom Data Model: We created a data model that accurately reflects the structure of Columbia Falls’ utility systems, enabling efficient management and analysis.
- Final Deliverable: The project culminated in an ESRI personal geodatabase featuring network topology for enhanced data connectivity.

Project Approach
To ensure the geodatabase met the City’s specific needs, GCS Research undertook a thorough assessment of Columbia Falls’ utility system modeling requirements. Our approach included:
- Documentation: We documented the representation of AutoCAD data and defined the necessary components for effective system modeling.
- Logical Data Model: Based on our assessment, we developed a logical data model, engaging in an interactive process with the City to verify data requirements and ensure accuracy.
- Physical Dataset Construction: Once approved, we built the physical dataset from the logical model, incorporating topological relationships for improved data integrity.
- Geodatabase Implementation: Our team customized UML in Visio, utilizing CASE tools to create the empty geodatabase, before loading the water, sewer, and storm data.

About Columbia Falls, Montana
Columbia Falls is a picturesque city located along the Flathead River in Flathead County, Montana. As of the 2020 census, the city has a population of 5,308 residents. Known for its scenic beauty and vibrant community, Columbia Falls is often ranked as one of the best and safest places to live in Montana.

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