Still going. Here is a slow but very effective example of vrml and perl together.
Due to some javascript, you need to open this tool in a new window. Basically, you can click anywhere on the image and a vrml map will be generated from the area you clicked on.
Also, the LOD Level of Detail concept is implemented. nine squares change to one when you zoom out far enough and vice versa when you zoom in.
USA VRML Terrain Generator