| How does the map work?
The map consists of two layers: a base layer provided by Google consisting of the standard map, satellite and hybrid views and a top layer created by VTA that uses GPS coordinates to plot bike facilites. When I zoom in, the lines don't seem very smooth. How come? One of the trade-offs in providing a service like this is that in order to maintain a quick download time, we are limited in the extent to which we can provide detail. Google Maps only allows us to draw lines in a connect-the-dots type fashion where a straight line is drawn from one GPS coordinate to another. The smoother the curve, the more points required, and the longer time you'll have to wait for the download to finish. Some of the lines seem to be a slight bit off of where they should be. Why? The underlying graphics provided by Google are updated from time to time. As these change, the location of streets may shift by a few ten-thousandths of a degree of latitude or longitude. Also, since the satellite and hybrid map views are images of a three-dimensional earth that has been flattened out to fit a rectangle, they may have slight discrepancies from the bike trails/paths or even the standard map view. I noticed a mistake/omission, can you fix this? Yes. Please notify us of the error and we will update it. You may also contribute to the update process, if you'd like, by submitting data point(s) or GMaps code. Suggestions for ways to improve the map are always welcome. Contact us. |