This map shows the increase in developed land via increase or change in impervious surface over 3 time periods; 1990, 1996 & 2000 using 1986 as the base time period. And as regional impervious surface increased within the same study area, it is logical to conclude that regional green space / open space decreased.  Analysis conducted of the Washington Metropolitan Area using satellite imagery revealed that our region’s impervious surface (paved, developed or otherwise non-vegetated) increased 5.6% from 12.2% to 17.8% in the 14 year study period between 1986 and 2000.  To put this into perspective, our analysis characterized pre-1986 conditions of development by measuring the existence of impervious surface at that time.  When compared to the 1986 data, it showed that this region had increased its impervious surface by nearly half between 1986 and 2000.

For mapping information, contact Brian LeCouteur at blecouteur@mwcog.org.  There are a limited number of free copies available.  Contact Mr. LeCouteur by e-mail or directly at 202-962-3393.

Price: Free File Download

Increase in Developed Land within the Metropolitan Washington Region: 1986-2000 (157 KB PDF)