Google announced today Google Merges Local and Maps Products. Google explains that "users can visit http://local.google.com to find local search and mapping information in one place." Chris Sherman clarifies that (1) Google Maps North America is out of beta and (2) that http://maps.google.com/ still works. On WebmasterRadio.FM this morning, during the SearchCast, Danny Sullivan said he thinks this is an easier way for Google to monetize Google Local and Maps but he doesn't like the merger.
Forum discussion currently at WebmasterWorld.