Dynamic routing tool

GIS-based methods and apparatuses for determining transportation routes are disclosed. A method in accordance with the present invention comprises determining a transportation route using a geographical information systems (GIS) database that represents a geographical area, wherein the GIS database includes at least one node representing at least one geographical location within the geographic area and at least one arc representing at least one street within the geographic area. The method further comprises determining a start point within the geographic area, determining an end point within the geographic area, and dynamically determining at least a first route between the start point and the end point, the route containing at least one arc, wherein the first route is determined by using a characteristic of the arc between the start point and the end point.