The Toronto area got a recent update in Google Maps yesterday. Judging by the state of construction projects near my place, I’m judging the new maps were taken this summer.

Fancy yourself to create a new Google Maps Mashup, or mine some public data? The City of Toronto has given open access to several datasets that they have. It’s a new venture, so don’t dismay the lack of data  yet. I’m sure as people create some new and interesting tools with it, that demand will rise and they’ll put their more valuable data online.

I’m quite happy they are doing this. Spending a career in IT has led me to lament the “it’s MY data” mentality and the unwillingness to share it. For a City to open it’s data doors, even slightly, is a great first step.

Yes, Google Street View is here in Toronto. Yes, it’s a bit of a privacy concern, but it’s a lot of fun! If you see something funny, post it in the comments.

This site maps the different sizes of the world’s subway systems