[mapserver-users] Newbie Q: Where to get U.S. street data?

[Bryan Field-Elliot]

Hi,

I've been developing web-based database applications for several years 
now -- however, presently, I'm writing (for the first time) one which 
needs to do dynamic mapping. I'm evaluating MapServer for this purpose 
(with my preference being to stick with open-sourced, free tools).

I need to display maps of city regions with street detail, and layer on 
top of it data from my own PostgreSQL database (e.g. retail store 
locations).

My stupid newbie question is -- where does one obtain street maps for 
the U.S. in a form usable by MapServer? Can good street data be obtained 
for free (e.g. from USGS etc?), or do I need to pay to obtain quality, 
up-to-date maps? If I need to pay, can anyone recommend any vendors?

Thanks in advance (and I recommend putting this question in your FAQ),

Bryan