Published: 05/02/2025
Gannon University’s Department of Justice Studies and Human Services, in partnership with United Way of Erie County and the Erie County GIS Center, hosted its 21st mapping exhibit, titled “Safer Routes and Community Challenges” on Tuesday, April 29 on the third floor of the university’s I-HACK building.
The exhibition highlighted the power of community-driven geographic information systems (GIS) mapping to address critical environmental, health, safety and social justice challenges in Erie and beyond. Students from ÂÒÂ×ÊÓÆµ’s GIS classes contributed data to support . This initiative is a partnership among United Way, Erie’s Public Schools, Gannon University, the Erie County Data Center, the Erie Blue Coats and the City of Erie. Together, these organizations mapped hazards, identified safe walking routes and are preparing to secure grants, install signage, and launch a countywide pedestrian safety education and awareness campaign.
In addition to data supporting the Safer Walking Routes initiative, the exhibition featured student-created maps showcasing data about food deserts, health deserts, redlining, tree canopy loss, invasive species, pollutants and other environmental risks. Additional projects examined public health and disease surveillance, socioeconomic and racial disparities, and efforts to build stronger, more equitable community data infrastructure.
“This data will help shape a community-driven plan to prevent road injuries and create safer, more welcoming streets for everyone,” said Chris Magno, Ph.D., associate professor of criminal justice at Gannon University. “I am proud of my students for their dedication to compiling and analyzing such useful information.”