I’ve been experimenting with animated mapping. Here’s a little sample of some work we did in Des Moines. Hopefully within the next week or so we’ll be able to share a more comprehensive take on this information in a new format we’re working on.
The map at the top shows development as it comes online between 1875 and today. The bars at the bottom depict the total amount of land developed or total footprint over the same period. Like the rings of a old oak tree, the pattern of urban development can tell us about the circumstances and conditions of different periods of development history.