A hyperlocal news platform built on civic data.

A hyperlocal news website

OpenBlock turns civic data into news by connecting sources such as crime reports, 311 service requests, building permits, and more.

• Aggregate local news and data from many sources onto local maps.
• Work at a truly local scale, down to a single block.
• Browse by location such as a neighborhood, ZIP code, or block, or browse by content type such as local news, crime reports, or restaurant inspections.
• Offer user defined locations, custom feeds, and custom email alerts.

A hyperlocal news engine

Enhance an existing website by adding local geotagged content.

• Geotag articles quickly so readers can search for them by location or use widgets embedded in an existing website.
• Serve geotagged RSS feeds and a full API for stories and data.

History

OpenBlock began life as the open source code released by EveryBlock in June 2009. Originally created by Adrian Holovaty and the EveryBlock team, it is now developed as an open source (GPL) project at openblockproject.org.

Funding for both the initial creation of EveryBlock and the ongoing development of OpenBlock was provided by the Knight Foundation.

Who maintains OpenBlock

OpenBlock is developed by OpenPlans, a nonprofit technology organization focused on urban information systems. OpenPlans builds software, publishes content, and promotes strategic partnerships that make cities better places to live.

Founded in 1999 and based in New York, OpenPlans is a 501(c)(3) not for profit with a team of software developers, designers, policy experts, and journalists.

Continue exploring

The OpenBlock FAQ answers common questions about the platform and its project history. The documentation covers installation, data loading, schemas, alerts, the REST API, and widgets.

If you are ready to run a site, start with installation and setup. If you want to add OpenBlock to an existing website, read the API guide or the widget guide.