Got 3D data?

Posted by Bruce Polderman, Product Manager

I'm pleased to announce that we've just launched the Google Cities in 3D Program, which invites cities, towns, and other local governments to share their 3D data with the public by adding a model of their city to Google Earth. With this new program we've made it simple for local governments to share their data with us and be included in the 3D Buildings layer of Google Earth.

A 3D model of a city is extremely useful to potential visitors, developers, investors, preservationists, property owners, businesses, public officials, and many other groups. By establishing a 3D representation of a city on Google Earth, local governments can more effectively engage the public and boost tourism by enabling prospective visitors to plan their visit in advance.

Prior to today, local governments could publish 3D building models to Google Earth via the Google 3D Warehouse. This new program expands on that approach and provides a more direct and efficient means of publishing larger datasets to Google Earth.

The Cities in 3D Program represents a continuation of our efforts to engage with content providers, including government agencies, and provide them with tools for making the information they produce more accessible to Internet users. Visit our website to watch a video highlighting the power of 3D!