Dynamic County Maps 2 (Unfortunate)

Less a cool application and more of an example of the power of information put in the hands of neighborhood groups. The Philadelphia Inquirer a month or two back put together this interactive map showing the frequency of shootings in the City (which Charlie's map reminded me of). Illustrated like a topographical map, many neighborhoods reacted quite strongly to the information. The unfortunate trends, represented and placed on the front page, has further inhibited any ability to market specific neighborhoods as improving and/or attractive places to live. On the other hand, the information has provided many neighborhoods with the proof that something must be done to combat what was often viewed as perception. Some are already looking into forming stronger partnerships with local police to better townwatch activities.