Attachment_B_NSC_BBSPV_ParticipantGuide

BBSPV_UserSuppliedGISGuide_v1.pdf

The Redistricting Data Program

Attachment_B_NSC_BBSPV_ParticipantGuide

OMB: 0607-0988

Document [pdf]
Download: pdf | pdf
Block Boundary Suggestion Project
Participant Guide
Instructions for Participants
With User Supplied GIS Software

U.S. Department of Commerce
Economic and Statistics Administration
U.S. CENSUS BUREAU
census.gov

This page intentionally left blank

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

Table of Contents
Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) Statement: ................................................... iii
Introduction iii
1. Planned 2020 Census Tabulation Block Boundaries ............................... 1
2. Suggested BBSP Workflow ........................................................................ 3
2.1
RDP Liaison Delegates Work ................................................................. 4
2.2
Obtaining Census Shapefiles ................................................................. 4
2.3
Updating Census Bureau Shapefiles ...................................................... 5
2.4
Linear Feature Review............................................................................ 6
2.5
Area Landmark and Area Hydrography Review ..................................... 8
2.6
Legal Boundary Review and Update (New for 2020) ............................ 11
2.7
Point Landmark Review ........................................................................ 13
2.8
2010 Linear Feature Extension Review ................................................ 14
2.9
Block Size Review (New for 2020) ....................................................... 15
2.10 Block Boundary Suggestion Flagging (Must Hold and Do Not Hold) .... 16
2.11 Block Area Grouping Delineation (Updated for 2020) ........................... 19
2.12 Block Boundary Review ........................................................................ 20
2.13 Validation Check ................................................................................... 20
2.14 Work Delegated .................................................................................... 20
3. Create Data Submission Files .................................................................. 21
3.1
Submitting Linear Feature Updates/Block Boundary Suggestions ....... 21
3.2
Submitting Area Landmarks and Area Hydrography Updates .............. 21
3.3
Submitting Legal Boundary Updates .................................................... 22
3.4
Submitting Point Landmark Updates .................................................... 23
3.5
Submitting Block Area Grouping Updates ............................................ 23
3.6
Creating .ZIP File containing All change files ....................................... 23
4. File Submission through SWIM ................................................................ 24
4.1
Login Page ........................................................................................... 24
UPDATES ALLOWED, BY MTFCC ........................................ A-1
A.1 Area Landmark / Hydrographic Area Updates Permitted .................... A-1
A.2 Linear Feature Updates Permitted ...................................................... A-2
A.3 Point Landmark Updates Permitted .................................................... A-3
MTFCC DESCRIPTIONS ........................................................ B-1
STREET TYPE ABBREVIATIONS ......................................... C-1
PARTNERSHIP SHAPEFILE DATA DICTIONARY................ D-1
ACRONYMS ................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
BBSP PARTICIPANT SUPPORT ........................................... F-1
COUNTY COMPLETION TRACKING SHEET ........................ G-1
Shapefiles in a Different Coordinate System ...................... H-1

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) Statement:
A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty
for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the
Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Control Number. This collection is voluntary.
The authority for conducting this collection comes from Title 13 United States Code
(U.S.C.), Sections 16, 141, and 193.
The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 0607-0988. Public reporting
for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 186 hours per
response, including the time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the
collection of information.
Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the
burden should be directed to:
Paperwork Reduction 0607-0988
United States Census Bureau
4600 Silver Hill Road, Room 4H177
Washington, DC 20233

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

iii

Introduction
Public Law (P.L.) 94-171 stipulates that the U.S. Census Bureau work in a nonpartisan
manner with the states to identify and provide the small-area population counts
necessary for legislative redistricting. The Census Bureau is required to provide these
counts within one year of Census Day, to the governor and the officers or public bodies
responsible for redistricting in each state. For the 2020 Census, the Census Bureau
must deliver the counts by April 1, 2021.
The Census Redistricting & Voting Rights Data Office (CRVRDO) implements the
requirements of P.L. 94-171 through five phases of the Redistricting Data Program
(RDP):
Phase 1: Block Boundary Suggestion Project (BBSP)
Phase 2: Voting District Project (VTDP)
Phase 3: Delivery of the 2020 P.L. 94-171 Redistricting Data Files
Phase 4: Collection of Post-2020 Redistricting Plans
Phase 5: Review of 2020 Census RDP and Recommendations for Census 2030
This document addresses Phase 1: Block Boundary Suggestion Project (BBSP) of the
RDP. The Census Bureau conducted initial BBSP from December 2015 – May 2016.
The Census Bureau is conducting BBSP Verification (BBSPV), when states who
submitted updates in initial BBSP have the opportunity to review their work, and all
states have the opportunity to submit additional updates, from December 2016 – May
2017. Through the BBSP, liaisons designated by the legislative leadership in each state,
the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, have the opportunity to influence the
delineation of the 2020 Census tabulation blocks. States influence tabulation block
delineation by suggesting linear features (e.g., roads, rivers, railroads, invisible
boundaries, etc.) to be ‘held’ as 2020 block boundaries or ‘not held’ as block boundaries.
The Census Bureau refers to this as ‘suggesting’ block boundaries or ‘setting’ or
‘flagging’ ‘Must Holds’ or ‘Do Not Holds’ on the features. State participants can also
influence block boundaries by adding and deleting linear features or edges, and
updating boundaries for other Census geographic entities, including incorporated places,
minor civil divisions (MCD), counties, area landmarks and area hydrography. All of these
features are potential block boundaries.
This guide is intended for state participants who choose to use their own Geographic
Information System (GIS) software, rather than the Geographic Update Partnership
Software (GUPS), for modifying the Census Bureau supplied shapefiles. The GUPS is
the Census Bureau’s recommended tool for submission and review of block boundary
suggestions. It is strongly recommended that BBSP participants use GUPS. For more
information on GUPS, please contact the CRVRDO at 301-763-4039 or
[email protected].
This document assumes that if you are not using GUPS, you are skilled in the use of
your own GIS software. Regardless of whether you plan to use GUPS or your own GIS,
the Census Bureau requires that entities update Census Bureau shapefiles, rather than
submitting a locally derived shapefile from an in-house GIS.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

iv

1. Planned 2020 Census Tabulation Block Boundaries
Census tabulation block boundaries primarily follow visible features, such as roads and
rivers, as well as any edges that bound legal or statistical geographic areas or selected
area landmarks stored in the Master Address File/Topologically Integrated Geographic
Encoding and Referencing (MAF/TIGER) System. Census blocks nest within all other
tabulated decennial census geographic entities and are the basis for all data tabulated
for the decennial census.
The table below lists the feature and boundary types currently planned as 2020 Census
tabulation block boundaries. If you flag these features as ‘Do Not Holds’ (i.e., request
that the feature or boundary type not become a 2020 tabulation block boundary), the
Census Bureau will not accept the ‘Do Not Hold’ suggestion.
Table 1: Census Planned Tabulation Block Boundaries by MAF/TIGER Feature
Classification Code
MTFCC

DESCRIPTION

MTFCC

DESCRIPTION

G2120

Hawaiian Home Land

G5200

Congressional District

G2130

Alaska Native Village Statistical Area

G5210

State Legislative District (Upper Chamber)

G2140

Oklahoma Tribal Statistical Area

G5220

State Legislative District (Lower Chamber)

G2150

State-designated Tribal Statistical Area

G5240

Voting District

G2160

Tribal Designated Statistical Area

G5400

Elementary School District

G2170

American Indian Joint Use Area

G5410

Secondary School District

G2200

Alaska Native Regional Corporation

G5420

Unified School District

G2300

Tribal Subdivision

G6330

Urban Growth Area

G2400

Tribal Census Tract

K2110

Military Installation

G2410

Tribal Block Group

K2181

National Park Service Land

G4000

State or State Equivalent

K2182

National Forest or Other Federal Land

G4020

County or State Equivalent

K2540

University or College

G4040

County Subdivision

K1235

Juvenile Institution

G4050

Estate

K1236

G4060

Sub-Minor Civil Division

K1237

G4110

Incorporated Place

K1238

Local Jail or Detention Center
Federal Penitentiary, State Prison, or
Prison Farm
Other Correctional Institution

G4120

Consolidated City

S1100

Primary Road

G5020

Census Tract

S1200

Secondary Road

G5035

Block Area Grouping

Primary and secondary roads (MAF/TIGER Feature Class Codes (MTFCCs) S1100 and
S1200) are planned tabulation block boundaries. Other features, such as local roads,
alleys, railroads, and perennial water, may or may not qualify to be tabulation block
boundaries based on the established criteria. As a BBSP participant, you may flag these
other features as “Must Hold” or “Do Not Hold” block boundaries.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

1

You will determine whether a feature is a planned block boundary by the feature’s value
in the Census Block Boundary Flag (CBBFLG) field in the edge attribute table of the
Census Bureau supplied edge partnership shapefile.
A CBBFLG value of “4” indicates the feature is a planned 2020 block boundary, while a
CBBFLG value of “9” indicates the feature is ineligible as a 2020 block boundary.
A CBBFLG value of "1" indicates the feature was designated a "Must Hold" by the
participant during the initial BBSP (December 2015 - May 2016), and a CBBFLG value
of "2" indicates the feature was designated a "Do Not Hold" by the participant.
The technical details for reviewing features and assigning block boundary suggestion
flags are contained in Part 2.
Note: Appendix B: MTFCC Descriptions - Complete List, contains the list of MTFCC
values in the partnership shapefiles and their descriptions.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

2

2. Suggested BBSP Workflow
Figure 1 depicts the suggested workflow for reviewing and updating Census Bureau data
for the BBSP. This guide outlines the activities associated with each of the workflow
process (square) boxes. You are not required to perform all the update activities shown
in the flowchart.
Work is performed at a county level and should be submitted to the Census Bureau on a
flow basis, as you complete each county. Submitting work on flow basis permits the
CRVRDO and the Census Bureau to review the files early in the process and provide
feedback as necessary. It also facilitates our file processing, and provides us with
sufficient time to clarify questions and concerns, increasing the likelihood that your
update and suggestions will be processed as intended.

Figure 1: Suggested BBSP Workflow

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

3

2.1

RDP Liaison Delegates Work

The Census Bureau works with a State RDP nonpartisan Liaison who is designated by
the governor and legislative leadership of the state. To maintain a nonpartisan
relationship, the Census Bureau only accepts completed work from the designated State
RDP Liaison.
The State RDP Liaison may choose to delegate work to an agency, a county or counties,
or a contractor. In this document, these people are collectively referred to as designees.
Regardless of who performs the BBSP work, the file updating process is the same. The
difference is that only the State RDP Liaison may submit completed work to the Census
Bureau via the Secure Web Incoming Module (SWIM).

2.2

Obtaining Census Shapefiles

In order to submit block boundary suggestions and other geographic updates, the
Census Bureau requires participants to review and update Census Bureau-supplied
Partnership shapefiles. You should receive a DVD in your participant package that
contains the partnership shapefiles for your area. There are three ways for participants
to access the partnership shapefiles:




Download the partnership shapefiles from the DVD;
Download the shapefiles from the Geography Partnership website at:
https://www.census.gov/geo/partnerships/bas/bas_download.html; or
Download the Geography Partnership shapefiles from the Census FTP site:
ftp://ftp2.census.gov/geo/PVS.

The planned block shapefile (described in Section 2.9) is included on the DVD but is
stored separately from the Geography Partnership shapefiles and can be downloaded by
the state level from the FTP site: ftp://ftp2.census.gov/geo/PVS/bbsp/.
The partnership shapefiles are downloaded in a zip file and reflect the legal boundaries
of governments effective as of January 1, 2016. The zip file name begins with
“partnership_shapefiles_PVS_16_v2”. When unzipped, the names of the shapefiles
begin with the prefix PVS_16_v2. For example, the edges shapefile is named
PVS_16_v2_edges_ (two digit state code and three digit county code).
Note: The FTP site may contain different vintages of the Geography Partnership
shapefiles. For BBSP, make sure to use vintage 2 shapefiles that begin with the
prefix PVS_16_v2.

Shapefile Projection
If you plan to use any of your own data files for reference, we recommend that you reproject your data files to match those provided by the Census Bureau to ensure correct
alignment of the data. However, returned shapefiles may be in any projection as long as
the projection information and the *.prj file are provided. A complete partnership
shapefile data dictionary is provided in Appendix D.
All shapefiles provided by the Census Bureau are in the following unprojected
geographic based coordinate system:
Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

4










GCS_NAD83
Angular Unit: Degree (0.017453292519943299)
Prime Meridian: Greenwich (0.000000000000000000)
Datum: D_North_American_1983
Spheroid: GRS_1980
Semi-major Axis: 6378137.000000000000000
Semi-minor Axis: 6356752.314140356100000000
Inverse Flattening: 298.257222101000020000

If you are unsure how to project your files to match ours, see Appendix H.

2.3

Updating Census Bureau Shapefiles

Participants should use the following provided partnership shapefiles for their
submissions. We recommend making a copy of any shapefile for which you plan to
provide updates. Update the shapefile as needed and export the updates following
the guidance in Section 3 of this document.
Table 2: Partnership Shapefiles for Submissions

Filename

Used For

PVS_16_v2_edges_

Linear feature review and updates (adds,
deletes, attribute updates), address range
updates, linear feature extension review, and
block boundary suggestion flagging.
Area landmarks and area hydrography review
and updates.
Incorporated place legal boundary updates.
MCD legal boundary updates.
County legal boundary updates.
Block area grouping review and updates.
Point landmark review and updates.

PVS_16_v2_arealm_
PVS_16_v2_place_
PVS_16_v2_mcd_
PVS_16_v2_county_
PVS_16_v2_bag_
PVS_16_v2_pointlm_

The Census Bureau requires that the returned shapefiles have specific name attributes
and characteristics in order for us to accept them as submissions. The attribute table
layout will vary depending on which type of submission you are making and is
specifically described in Sections 2.4 through 2.11.
All participants must have the ability to edit a Census Bureau shapefile. Again, the
Census Bureau requires that participants update Census Bureau shapefiles with
changes, rather than submitting their own shapefile from a local GIS. Participants must
create a separate linear feature update layer and change polygon layers for each
updated entity type (e.g. county, MCD, place, area landmark). Please create linear
feature update layers and change polygons using only the current partnership
shapefiles. We recommend you begin any updates by:
1) Making a copy of the provided partnership shapefile that you wish to edit;
2) Making updates to the file copy as described in Sections 2.4 through 2.11;

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

5

3) Exporting the updates into a ‘changes’ shapefile, following the naming
conventions as described in Section 3; and
4) Zipping and submitting the shapefiles as described in Section 3.6 and Section 4.

2.4

Linear Feature Review

All line feature updates must be submitted back to the Census Bureau by
updating the PVS_16_v2_edges_ shapefile and exporting all changes into
a participant created shapefile named bbspv17__ln_changes
(See Section 3).
Review the Census Bureau’s linear features (PVS_16_v2_edges_) layer to
determine whether there are features to be added or deleted. Attribute updates
(e.g., name, MTFCC, and address ranges) for selected features may also be updated,
as specified in Appendix A2: Linear Feature Updates Permitted.
It is important that Census Bureau data reflect the most recent linear features to ensure
that new or previously missed housing units located along these features are identified
and located. Pay particular attention to any areas that have experienced recent
population growth or construction activities, as these are the most likely to possess new
or altered linear features (e.g., new streets in subdivisions or privately maintained roads
that serve as public streets but exclude private driveways).
All linear feature updates, including linear feature extensions and block boundary
suggestion flagging (Must Holds and Do Not Holds), must be saved to the linear feature
update layer (see Sections 2.8 and 2.10). Additionally, if areal landmark or legal
boundary changes are made and use existing edges, you must update or create a linear
feature update layer (see Section 2.5 and 2.6 for additional information).
In order to submit linear feature updates, participants must create a separate linear
feature update layer (see note below for file naming conventions). We recommend that
you begin by making a copy of the PVS_16_v2_edges_ for editing and creating
updates for submission to the Census. This is also referred to as the linear feature
update layer in this document. You can then export the changes from this update layer
to create your submission file, as described in Section 3.
Note: All linear feature changes must be submitted back to the Census Bureau in a
participant created shapefile named bbspv17__ln_changes, where
 is the state county code (see section 3).
To review the linear features, we suggest that you begin by symbolizing the linear
feature update layer based on the MTFCC. A description of all MTFCCs can be found in
Appendix B. The basic groupings of the MTFCCs are as follows:
Sxxxx = Roads;
Rxxxx = Railroads;
Pxxxx = Nonvisible Features;
Lxxxx = Other Linear Features; and
Hxxxx = Hydrography.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

6

Once the edges layer is copied and symbolized, bring in other Census provided
shapefiles (e.g., CD, SLDL, SLDU, incorporated places, etc.) and any local data layers
that may be helpful. In your review, please note the following:
1. Missing Road Features - If a road, subdivision, etc. is missing from the Census
Bureau’s edges shapefile, add the feature(s) and provide the name and MTFCC
in the attribute table. Feature name is required for any added primary or
secondary roads (MTFCC = S1100 or S1200). Feature names for local roads
(MTFCC=S1400) are encouraged. The CHNG_TYPE field also needs to be
updated to 'AL'.
2. Deleting Linear Features - If a feature in the Census Bureau’s edges layer does
not exist, flag the feature by updating the attribute table with 'DL' in the
CHNG_TYPE field. Do not actually delete the feature in the file.
3. Spatial Inaccuracies –For our purposes, a feature is considered spatially
inaccurate only if it is represented in the shapefile more than 7.6 meters from it’s
actual location or it is positionally inaccurate in relation to other features and
boundaries (e.g. a stream appears on the east side of the road, when it should
be on the west side) in a way that would affect the assignment of housing units to
legal entities, census tracts, and/or census blocks. If a feature is in the incorrect
location in the Census Bureau’s edges layer, flag the feature for deletion
(CHNG_TYPE=DL) in the attribute table, and add it as a new line
(CHNG_TYPE=AL) in the correct location.
4. Incorrect or Missing Names or MTFCCs - Correct or add the name and/or
MTFCC in the attribute table and add 'CA' in the CHNG_TYPE field.

Note: In addition to wholescale realignments, there are other updates that we will not
accept due to our representation requirements. For example if a user deletes both
lanes of an interstate and adds a single line to replace the deleted interstate, we
will not accept these changes.
Required Attributes - Each linear feature update must have the required attributes and
corresponding change type populated in the attribute table. The change type field
(CHNG_TYPE) must be populated with either ‘AL’, indicating an added line, ‘DL’,
indicating a deleted line, or ‘CA’, indicating the feature was renamed or given a different
MTFCC. In addition, the following applies:



If you add a new line and delete an existing line to make a spatial correction, add
the value in the TIGER Line ID (TLID) field of the deleted line to the TLID field of
the added line.
Provide the feature name and MTFCC code in the FULLNAME and MTFCC
fields. If you add linear features with MTFCCs of Pxxxx or Lxxxx you must
attribute the BBSP_2020 field with a ’1’ (Must Hold). You can only add these
types of features if you want them to be held as a block boundary. For more
information, refer to Section 2.10.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

7

Table 3: Required Attributes for Linear Feature Updates

CHNG_TYPE

TLID

FULLNAME

MTFCC

Add Feature

X(‘AL’)

If spatial
correction

Required if
MTFCC is S1100,
S1200. Optional if
MTFCC is S1400

X

Delete Feature

X(‘DL’)

X

Rename
Feature
Reclassify
Feature

X(‘CA’)

X

X

X

X(‘CA’)

X

X

Note: X = Required Field

Address Range Updates
The Census Bureau accepts, but does not encourage, address range data as part of the
linear feature update layer. Since we have an internal update process for creating and
maintaining address ranges, we may not use your data to update our database.
However, if you do choose to submit address ranges, you must include the required
attributes and populate the corresponding change type in the attribute table.
We recommend that you only add address ranges to new features. Existing address
ranges are not shown in our outgoing shapefiles; however, address ranges can be found
in the ADDR.dbf table and can be joined to the edges shapefile through a many-to-one
join.
Each address range update must have the required attributes and corresponding
change type populated.
Table 4: Required Attributes for Address Range Updates

Address
Ranges

CHNG_TYPE

LTOADD

RTOADD

X(‘CA’)

X

X

LFROMADD RFROMADD
X

X

Note: X = Required Field

2.5

Area Landmark and Area Hydrography Review

All area landmark and area hydrography updates must be submitted back to the
Census Bureau in a participant created shapefile named
bbspv17__alndk_changes (See Section 3).
The Census Bureau will accept updates to area landmarks (such as state parks,
cemeteries and prisons) and area hydrography as part of the BBSP. Allowable updates
for area landmarks and hydrographic areas are:


Correcting boundaries (add or remove area);

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

8






Creating a new area landmark or hydrographic area;
Removing an area landmark or hydrographic area;
Changing or adding a landmark name; and
Changing/updating the MTFCC of a landmark.

Note: If your state plans to reallocate prisoners during redistricting, you may wish to
review the existing area landmarks with MTFCCs K1235, K1236, K1237, and
K1238, which represent areas with prison populations.
In order to submit area landmark and area hydrography updates, participants must
create a separate change polygon layer for area landmarks and area hydrography. It is
recommended that you make a copy of the area landmarks shapefile
(PVS_16_v2_arealm_) for editing and then export all changes into the
bbspv17__alndk_changes file.
Note: Participants may also need to submit a participant-created shapefile named
bbspv17__ln_changes  is the state county code. (See section
3).
By adding and modifying areal landmarks, you may be making edits to the linear feature
layer. If you are making other edits to the linear feature layer, you will be submitting a
linear change layer. However if you are only making changes to areal landmarks during
BBSP and during these edits you add, delete, or change the edges involved in the
boundary of an areal landmark, you are also updating the linear features layer. Please
extract the changes and submit this layer in addition to the areal landmark change layer.
If you add a new area landmark or hydrographic area, the Census Bureau will process
your submission in conjunction with other sources to add the area to the MAF/TIGER
system. Table 5 shows the MTFCCs for the types of area landmarks and hydrographic
areas that can be updated (names, boundaries, etc.).
Table 5: Acceptable MTFCCs for New Area Landmarks / Hydrographic Areas

DESCRIPTION
C3023

Island

H2030

Lake/Pond

H2040

Reservoir

H2041

Treatment Pond

H2051

Bay/Estuary/Gulf/Sound

H2081

Glacier

K1231

Hospital

K1235

Juvenile Institution

K1236

Local Jail or Detention Center

K1237

Federal Penitentiary, State Prison, or Prison Farm

K2110

Military Installation

K2131

Hospital/Hospice/Urgent Care Facility

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

9

DESCRIPTION
K2180

Park

K2181

National Park Service Land

K2182

National Forest or Other Federal Land

K2183

Tribal Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2184

State Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2185

Regional Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2186

County Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2187

County Subdivision Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2188

Incorporated Place Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2189

Private Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2190

Other Park, Forest, or Recreation Area (quasi-public,
independent park, commission, etc.)

K2424

Marina

K2457

Airport - Area Representation

K2540

University or College

K2561

Golf Course

K2582

Cemetery

Each area landmark or area hydrography update must have the required attributes and
corresponding change type populated. If you are modifying an existing area landmark or
hydrographic feature, preserve the existing AREAID for the feature in the AREAID field
of the attribute table.
Table 6: Required Attributes for Area Landmark and Area Hydrography Updates

Boundary
Correction
(Add Area)
Boundary
Correction
(Remove Area)

FULLNAME

CHNG_TYPE

RELATE

X

X(‘B’)

X(‘IN’)

X

X

X(‘B’)

X(‘OUT’)

X

Delete Landmark

MTFCC

AREAID

X(‘X’)

X
X

Change Landmark
Name

X

X(‘G’)

New Landmark

X

X(‘E’)

X

Note: X = Required Field

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

10

2.6

Legal Boundary Review and Update (New for 2020)

All legal boundary updates must be submitted back to the Census Bureau in a
participant created shapefile. The shapefile name depends on the type of
geography you are updating (see Section 3). Additionally we request that you
supply a whole entity file to accompany any legal boundary updates or boundary
corrections that you make. A whole entity file is a shapefile that shows the entity
being modified in its entirety. It is not required but assists in the Census Bureau’s
research on the change or correction.
At the recommendation of many states, the Census Bureau is introducing the ability for
states to review and update legal boundaries as part of Phase 1 (BBSP and BBSPV)
and Phase 2 (VTD) of the RDP. During the initial delineation phase and the subsequent
verification phase of the BBSP, state redistricting participants may submit legal boundary
updates (annexations and deannexations) and boundary corrections for counties, MCDs,
incorporated places, and consolidated cities.
If you want to report a new county, MCD, incorporated place, or consolidated city,
or delete an existing one, please call the CRVRDO at 301-763-4039, or email
[email protected].
Note: All annexations and deannexations must be submitted back to the Census Bureau
in a participant created shapefile. Refer to Section 3.3 for a breakdown of the
change shapefiles by entity type. By performing these legal boundary updates,
you may be making edits to the linear feature layer. If you are making other edits
to the linear feature layer, you will be submitting a linear change layer. However, if
you are only making changes to legal boundaries during BBSP and during these
edits you add, delete, or change the edges involved in the boundary, you are also
updating the linear features layer. Please extract the changes and submit this
layer in addition to the appropriate legal boundary change layer.
The Census Bureau will reconcile the boundary submissions with the appropriate local
governments as part of our Boundary and Annexation Survey (BAS). Although legal
documentation (effective date, authorization type, and documentation number) is not
required for boundary updates submitted through the BBSP and BBSPV, we strongly
encourage you to submit the documentation for any legal updates to expedite our ability
to reconcile and process any legal updates reported.
You do not have to provide the legal paperwork for the Census Bureau to process the
change as a legal change; however, you do need to provide the effective date,
authorization type, and documentation number. Annexations, de-annexations,
incorporations and dis-incorporations submitted without documentation should be
submitted as boundary corrections.
It is important to note that the Census Bureau cannot guarantee we will make these
updates, as we may first have to adjudicate the updates with the official BAS contact.
Annexations and Deannexations
In order to submit an annexation or deannexation, you must create a separate change
polygon layer showing the spatial differences between the boundary represented in the
Census Bureau-provided partnership shapefile and your updated boundary. We
Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

11

recommend that you make a copy of the relevant entity’s partnership shapefile for
editing, and then export all the changes into the submission changes shapefile. See
Section 3 for the submission file naming requirements. The submission file must include
all required attributes and corresponding change type populated, as shown in Table 7.
The name field (NAME) in the attribute table should be populated with the name of the
geographic entity affected. The change type field (CHNG_TYPE) should indicate
whether the change is an annexation (A) or deannexation (D).
The effective date field (EFF_DATE) should be populated with the date of the ordinance,
resolution, or local law authorizing the annexation or deannexation. If available, the
authorization type field (AUTHTYPE) should be populated with the type of
documentation authorizing the change (i.e., ordinance, resolution, local law, other). The
documentation field (DOCU) should be populated with the documentation number.
Table 7: Required Attributes for Annexations and Deannexations
NAME

CHNG_TYPE

EFF_DATE

AUTHTYPE

DOCU

Annexation

X

X(‘A’)

X

X

X

Deannexation

X

X(‘D’)

X

X

X

RELATE

Note: X = Required Field

Boundary Corrections
As with annexations and deannexations, you must create individual change polygons for
each boundary correction. Each boundary correction must have the required attributes
and corresponding change type. The name field (NAME) must be populated with the
name of the corrected legal entity. The change type field (CHNG_TYPE) must be
populated with a ‘B’ to indicated boundary correction. The relate field (RELATE) must be
populated with ‘IN’, indicating the corrected area is within the named legal entity, or
‘OUT’, indicating the corrected area is outside of the named legal entity.
Table 8: Required Attributes for Boundary Corrections
NAME

CHNG_TYPE

X

X(‘B’)

X(‘IN’)

X

X(‘B’)

X(‘OUT’)

Boundary
Correction
(Add Area)
Boundary
Correction
(Remove
Area)

EFF_DATE

AUTHTYPE

DOCU

RELATE

Note: X = Required Field

Please review all changes to ensure that the correct boundary-to-feature relationships
are being created or maintained. The Census Bureau is aware that many governments
base their legal boundaries on cadastral (parcel-based) right-of-way mapping; however,
the Census Bureau bases maps on spatial data that is topologically integrated.
Therefore, when housing units are not affected, we suggest you snap your boundaries to
Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

12

nearby street centerlines (or rivers, railroads, etc.) wherever applicable. This will help
establish a more accurate population count for entities.
Boundary Correction Criteria
Because the Census Bureau uses a topologically integrated database, we cannot
process all types of boundary corrections for inclusion in MAF/TIGER. The Census
Bureau will accept, adjudicate, and process boundary corrections that spatially interact
with (abut) other legal changes (annexation, deannexation) and meet both of the
following two conditions:



The existing boundary has been digitized incorrectly or appears in the incorrect
location; and
The overall shape of the geographic entity is maintained and no feature-toboundary relationships are dissolved.

The Census Bureau will not accept boundary corrections that:




Are along county boundaries unless there is a written agreement between the
two counties that documents the correct location of the boundary;
Dissolve boundary-to-feature relationships (roads, rivers, railroads, etc.) if the
difference is less than thirty feet; or
Have a width of less than thirty feet over the entire polygon.

Note: The Census Bureau will snap any entity boundary correction to a MAF/TIGER
feature when it exists within thirty feet of that feature.

2.7

Point Landmark Review

All point landmark changes must be submitted back to the Census Bureau in a
participant created shapefile named bbspv17__plndk_changes (See
Section 3)
Point landmark review is an optional activity. Because many of the point landmarks
contained in the Census Bureau’s MAF/TIGER System originate from the Geographic
Names Information System (GNIS), the official vehicle for names used by the Federal
Government, only four point landmarks can be updated:





mountain peak/summits (C3022);
cul-de-sacs (C3061);
traffic circles (C3062); and
airports or airfields (K2451).

In order to submit point landmark updates, participants must create a separate change
point layer for point landmarks. We recommend you that you make a copy of the point
landmark shapefile (PVS_16_v2_pointlm_) for editing and then export all
changes into the bbspv17__plndk_changes file.
Each point landmark update must have the required attributes and corresponding
change type populated. When modifying or deleting an existing point landmark, preserve
the existing POINTID for the feature in the attribute table.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

13

Table 9: Attribute Requirements for Point Landmark Updates

New Point Landmark

FULLNAME

CHNG_TYPE

MTFCC

X

X(‘E’)

X

Delete Point Landmark
Change Name

X

POINTID

X(‘X’)

X

X(‘G’)

X

Note: X = Required Field

Appendix A3: Point Landmark Updates Permitted, lists the feature updates the Census
Bureau will accept.

2.8

2010 Linear Feature Extension Review

All line feature updates must be submitted back to the Census Bureau in a
participant created shapefile named bbspv17__ln_changes (See Section
3). This is the same submission file that would contain any updates to other linear
features (adds, deletes, name changes, etc.). Refer to Section 2.4 for further
details.
During the Census 2010 RDP, BBSP participants could place a “must-hold” on an
existing feature that did not form a closed a polygon. Participants were permitted to add
a short, nonvisible line to extend the feature so that it closed the polygon and created a
block. We do not plan to continue to maintain these 2010 feature extensions for 2020
unless you tell us you want us to use them again in 2020 to create blocks. The 2010
feature extensions are included in the 2020 BBSP files for review and update.
All block boundary suggestions are contingent upon the lines intersecting to form a
closed polygon at the time the Census Bureau creates tabulation blocks. As a result, all
block boundary suggestions, when combined with other features and planned holds,
must form a closed polygon.
You are not required to review the 2010 feature extensions. However, please be aware
that if you would like a 2010 feature extension held as 2020 block boundary, you must
take an action on the feature extension.
The 2010 feature extensions can be identified by selecting all edges with
attributes of BBSPFLG = 1 and an MTFCC = P0001 in the
PVS_16_v2_edges_ shapefile.
If you choose to review the 2010 feature extensions, you may:




Hold the 2010 feature extension for 2020. The feature from which the extension
originates should also be flagged as a must-hold block boundary, along with the
extension, in order to form a closed polygon. Assign BBSP_2020 with a value of
1 and a CHNG_TYPE = CA.
Delete the 2010 feature extension. Deleting 2010 feature extensions that are not
needed for 2020 blocks will help the Census Bureau remove features from the
MAF/TIGER System that no longer serve a current data tabulation purpose. If
you determine that the 2010 feature extension should not be held as a feature

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

14



extension, flag the extension with a CHNG_TYPE = DL and leave the attribute
BBSP_2020 blank.
Ignore the 2010 feature extension. Be aware that 2010 feature extensions and
the features with which they are associated may not be held as 2020 tabulation
block boundaries. If you take no action on a 2010 feature extension, the Census
Bureau will determine whether to hold the extension and the feature associated
with it as a 2020 block boundary.

All updates should be saved in the linear feature update layer
(bbspv17__ln_changes). Refer to Section 2.4 Linear Feature Review for
further details.

2.9

Block Size Review (New for 2020)

To facilitate your BBSP work, the Census Bureau created “planned” 2020 tabulation
blocks based on the 2020 planned tabulation block boundaries, and estimated the
number of housing units within each of these blocks. The block size indicator is based
on the range of the number of housing units in the planned block.
Note: Although discrete numbers have been established in order to assign each block a
size value, the actual number of housing units in a block is approximate.
Factors considered when establishing the block size categories were the criteria for
block groups (minimum housing unit count of 240 and a maximum of 1,200), and the
criteria for census tracts (minimum housing unit count of 480, optimum count of 1,600,
and a maximum count of 3,200). The block size indicator is found in the BLKSZIND field
of the bbsp_2016_block_ shapefile. Table 10 lists the block size categories
and indicator values.
Table 10: Block Size Categories

Size

Approximate Number
Housing Units

A

Greater than 2,000

B

1,600-1,999

C

1,200-1,599

D

1,000-1,199

E

700-999

F

480-699

G

400-479

H

240-399

I

1-239

Z

Potential “0” housing unit block

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

15

Note: The planned block size shapefile was created specifically for BBSP participants
and is not included in the normal suite of partnership shapefiles. The block
shapefiles (bbsp_2016_block_) are on the provided data DVD or can be
downloaded from the following Census FTP site:
ftp://ftp2.census.gov/geo/PVS/bbsp

2.10 Block Boundary Suggestion Flagging (Must Hold and Do
Not Hold)
All block boundary suggestions are considered linear feature updates and must
be submitted back to the Census Bureau in a participant created shapefile named
bbspv17__ln_changes (See Section 3). This is the same submission file
that would contain any updates to other linear features (adds, deletes, name
changes, etc.). Refer to Section 2.4 for further details.
BBSP participants can identify features they want the Census Bureau to hold (Must
Hold) or not hold (Do Not Hold) as block boundaries.
The Census Bureau has identified features planned as 2020 tabulation block
boundaries, as reflected in the provided PVS_16_v2_edges_ shapefiles. These
features have a value of "4" in the CBBFLG field of the PVS_16_v2_edges_
shapefile. You can refer to Section 1, Planned 2020 Tabulation Block Boundaries, for the
complete feature list. Because these features are planned block boundaries, it is not
necessary for you to place a 'Must Hold' flag on them. However, you may place a 'Must
Hold' flag on a feature that is a planned 2020 block boundary to help ensure that the
feature is held if the 2020 tabulation block criteria change, or the geography itself
changes from now until the time the Census Bureau creates the 2020 tabulation blocks.
The Census Bureau has also identified features that are ineligible as 2020 block
boundaries. These features have a value of “9” in the CBBFLG field of the
PVS_16_v2_edges_ shapefile. You may place a”Must Hold”' flag on these
features, but if you do so, you should enter a justification for 'holding' in the justification
field of the edges shapefile attribute table. The Census Bureau will consider the request,
but may not honor it.
There are features with no block boundary status assigned (Null). You may assign a
‘Must Hold’ or a ‘Do Not Hold’ if you have a strong preference, but you are not required
to assign a BBSP_2020 'Must Hold' or 'Do Not Hold' flag to every feature, including
street features, in the file.
The linear feature update layer contains three BBSP attributes: The first attribute field
(BBSPFLG) indicates previously identified 'Must Holds' (BBSPFLG=1) and 'Do Not
Holds' (BBSPFLG=2) from the 2010 Census.
A second attribute field (CBBFLG) identifies all currently planned 2020 Census block
boundary lines (CBBFLG=4) and ineligible lines (CBBFLG=9). A third attribute field
(BBSP_2020) is designed to capture participant suggested 2020 Census block
boundaries.
If you participated in the initial BBSP from December 2015 – May 2016, CBBFLG may
also include:
Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

16




"1" - participant suggested 'Must Hold' in initial BBSP; and
"2" - participant suggest 'Do Not Hold' in initial BBSP.
Table 11: BBSP Legal Conditional Values
VALUES

DESCRIPTION

BBSPFLG=1

2010 Participant Identified Must Hold Block Boundary

BBSPFLG=2

2010 Participant Identified Do not Hold Block Boundary

BBSPFLG=4

2010 Census Identified Planned Block Boundary

BBSPFLG=9

2010 Census Identified Ineligible Block Boundary

BBSP_2020 = 1

2020 Participant Identified Must Hold Block Boundary*

BBSP_2020 = 2

CBBFLG = 4

2020 Participant Identified Do Not Hold Block Boundary*
2020 Participant Identified Must Hold Block Boundary
(during initial BBSP)
2020 Participant Identified Do not Hold Block
Boundary(during initial BBSP)
2020 Census Identified Planned Block Boundary

CBBFLG = 9

2020 Census Identified Ineligible Block Boundary

CBBFLG = 1
CBBFLG = 2

*Note: These fields will show as null until you enter a "1" or "2"

Block Boundary Criteria
 All BBSPV participant-provided 2020 Census 'Must Holds' (BBSP_2020 = 1),
combined with existing features and other planned block boundaries, must form
closed polygons.
 2020 Census planned tabulation block boundaries (CBBFLG = 4), are an
indication of what we would plan to use as a 2020 Census tabulation block
boundary if they were defined today. The planned tabulation block boundaries
may change if the criteria changes, or if the feature attributes are updated
through other Census programs.
 BBSPV participant provided 2020 Census 'Do Not Holds' (BBSP_2020 = 2) will
not be accepted if the line they are placed on needs to be held for other
purposes. For example, if a 'Do Not Hold' were placed on an incorporated place
boundary, the 'Do Not Hold' would not be accepted.
Note: Whenever possible you should use edges that already exist in the shapefiles to
use as Must Holds. This includes when there is a small spatial difference between
the source you are using and the partnership shapefiles. However if a new feature
is needed, please add it and flag as a Must Hold (BBSP_2020=1).
Candidates for assigning a 'Must Hold' block boundary suggestion flag are:




Newly added features;
Features that are not currently planned as block boundaries (no status assigned);
and
Features that are already planned as 2020 block boundaries but you want held
should their status change.

If the block definition criteria or feature attributes change between the time BBSPV
occurs and when the Census Bureau creates 2020 census tabulation blocks, assigning a
Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

17

'Must Hold' to a planned block boundary feature will increase the likelihood that the
feature will become a 2020 block boundary, despite the criteria change.
Be aware that assigning a 'Must Hold' flag to a feature that is ineligible to be a block
boundary does not ensure that the Census Bureau will honor your request but we will
reevaluate the feature’s status based on your suggestion. All 'Must Hold' block boundary
suggestions are contingent upon the lines intersecting to form a closed polygon at the
time the Census Bureau creates the 2020 tabulation blocks.
In order to assign a 'Must Hold' Flag, participants must edit the attributes of the
linear feature update layer:



To assign a ‘Must Hold’ flag on an existing feature: BBSP_2020=1,
CHNG_TYPE=CA
To assign a 'Must Hold' flag on a new feature: BBSP_2020=1, CHNG_TYPE=AL.

Adding New 2020 Feature Extensions
If you wish to hold a feature as a 2020 block boundary but the feature does not form a
closed polygon, you may add a feature extension to close the polygon. Feature
extensions must meet the following criteria:





Extensions, combined with other features and planned holds, must form a closed
polygon;
Extensions must be no longer than 300 feet (if an extension needs to be longer
than 300 feet, participants must provide justification in the JUSTIFY field of the
attribute table of the linear feature update layer);
Extensions must be a straight line originating from the end of a road feature; and
Extensions must terminate on a non-road feature, with the exception of highways
(i.e., extensions may terminate on highways – MTFCC S1100).

Digitize new 2020 feature extensions in the linear feature update layer and code
each feature with a CHNG_TYPE = AL, BBSP_2020 = 1, and MTFCC=P0001.

Assigning a 'Do Not Hold' Flag (BBSP_2020=2):
You may want to place a ‘Do Not Hold’ flag on features that are not desirable as block
boundaries. Potential candidates for assigning a 'Do Not Hold' block boundary
suggestion flag may include:




Private roads, trails, and unimproved roads;
Hydrographic features with no area, shown as a single-line feature, such as a
stream or creek; and
Any feature creating unnecessary blocks, such as highway ramps, traffic circles
shown as open circles or “lollipops” in the Census geospatial files, and similar
features.

Be aware that assignment of a 'Do Not Hold' flag to a feature that is a 2020 planned
block boundary does not ensure that the Census Bureau will honor your request, but we
will reevaluate the feature’s status based on your suggestion. You may also add a

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

18

justification statement in the JUSTIFY field of the linear feature update layer attribute
table.
In order to assign a 'Do Not Hold' Flag, you must edit the linear feature update
layer:



To assign a 'Do Not Hold' on an existing feature: BBSP_2020=2,
CHNG_TYPE=CA;
To assign a Do Not Hold flag on a feature that should be deleted: BBSP_2020=2,
CHNG_TYPE=DL

2.11 Block Area Grouping Delineation (Updated for 2020)
The Block Area Grouping (BAG) layer you create must be submitted back to the
Census Bureau in a participant created shapefile named
bbspv17__BAG_changes.
During the 2020 tabulation block creation, the Census Bureau will automatically group
islands to form a single tabulation block if they have no road features and the islands fall
within a 5 kilometer radius. You may also group specific islands to suggest a single 2020
tabulation block, called a BAG.
The criteria for creating a BAG are:





BAG must consist of two or more islands;
BAG perimeter must be entirely over water;
BAGs cannot overlap; and
BAGs cannot cross the boundary of other tabulation geographies, such as
counties or incorporated places.

In order to make BAG updates, participants must create a separate BAG update layer
called bbspv17__BAG_changes. We recommend that you begin by making a
copy of the Census Bureau BAG Shapefile Layer for editing and creating updates for
submission to the Census. As described in Section 3, you can then export the changes
from this update layer to create your submission file.
The shapefile should have two text fields: BAGCE (length of 3), and MTFCC (length of
5). When creating your BAGs, provide each with a number in the BAGCE field. Start with
001 and increment by 1 for each BAG created. The MTFCC should always be G5035.
BAG delineation is optional, and probably most appropriate for states with hydrographic
areas that contain a number of islands.
Grouping selected islands to create a unique block identification is done by delineating a
polygon around the selected islands. When creating a BAG, digitize the polygon around
the set of desired islands making sure not to cross any land areas. If it crosses any other
tabulations areas, it will be split along that line as well.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

19

2.12 Block Boundary Review
You should review all your block boundary suggestions before submitting an updated
county to the Census Bureau (if you are the designated State RDP Liaison) or to the
State Liaison (if you have been delegated by the State Liaison to perform work).

2.12.1 Performing BBSP Verification
You can identify any linear features you flagged as a “Must Hold” or “Do Not Hold” in the
initial BBSP phase, using the CBBFLG field in the attribute table of the edges
partnership shapefile. CBBFLG = 1 indicates you flagged the feature as a “Must Hold”
and CBBFLG = 2 indicates you flagged the feature as a “Do Not Hold.” “Must Holds” set
in BBSPV are indicated by a value of “1” in the BBSP_2020 field, and “Do Not Holds” set
in BBSPV are indicated by a value of “2” in the BBSP_2020 field.
Table 12: BBSP Hold Values BBSP vs. BBSPV
Made during BBSP
(2016)

Made during BBSP Verification
(2017)

Must Holds

CBBFLG=1

BBSP_2020=1

Do Not Holds

CBBFLG=2

BBSP_2020=2

2.13 Validation Check
The Census Bureau recommends that you check for any non-closed polygons prior to
submitting a county return. A non-closed polygon is a polygon where you have placed
one or more 'Must Hold' block boundary flags on features but the features, when
combined with the planned block boundaries, do not “close” to form a census block. The
Census Bureau cannot accept a suggested block boundary if non-closed polygons are
present.

2.14 Work Delegated
Any work performed on behalf of the State RDP Liaison, such as by a staff member,
county or a contractor, must be submitted to the State Liaison for review and approval.
The State RDP Liaison will submit the work to the Census Bureau if they approve the
work. If the State RDP Liaison determines that BBSP work completed by a designee
requires changes or additional work, it is the liaison’s responsibility to decide whether to
make the changes or return the project to the original delineator for further updates.
The State RDP Liaison submits completed, county-level files on flow basis to the Census
Bureau through the Bureau’s Secure Web Incoming Module (SWIM; see Section 4). Do
not hold files to submit all at once. Submit data submission files as you complete them,
especially at the beginning of the update process, so that the Census Bureau has time to
provide feedback if there are errors, omissions, or other concerns.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

20

3. Create Data Submission Files
The Census Bureau requires that the returned shapefiles have specific attributes and
characteristics in order for us to accept them as legitimate submissions. Any changes
made to the partnership shapefiles should be extracted and saved as a change
shapefile. Below is a list of change shapefile types and specifications that should be
included in your BBSP submission, depending on the type of updates made.
All returned shapefiles and whole entity shapefiles, as well as any supporting
documentation, should be placed in a .zip file named bbspv17__return.zip
prior to submitting the return to the Census Bureau.

3.1

Submitting Linear Feature Updates/Block Boundary
Suggestions

Once you have completed all linear feature updates, export the updated edges to a
shapefile named ‘bbspv17__ln_changes where  is the state and
county FIPS code.



Verify that all block boundary suggestions and feature extensions contain the
correct attributes (i.e., BBSP_2020 field populated).
Verify that any added lines contain the appropriate MTFCC code (e.g., P0001 for
an invisible legal/statistical boundary) and the CHNG_TYPE field is populated.
The submission file should include :
o All Linear Features (edges) where BBSP_2020 field is populated with:
̶
1 (‘Must Hold’); or
̶
2 (‘Do Not Hold’).

and


All Linear Features (edges) where CHNG_TYPE Field is populated with:
o AL (Add Line);
o DL (Delete Line); or
o CA (Change Attribute: for BBSP_2020, Name, MTFCC, and/or Address Range).

Additionally, the linear features change shapefile should be updated and included if
there are area landmark or legal boundary updates that include existing edges.

3.2

Submitting Area Landmarks and Area Hydrography
Updates

If any updates were completed for area landmarks or area hydrography, export the
updated records to a shapefile named ‘bbspv17__alndk_changes’. The file
should include all area landmark polygons where CHNG_TYPE Field is populated with:
B (Boundary Correction);
E (New Landmark);
G (Change Name or MTFCC); or
X (Delete).
Additionally, the linear features that were modified (added or reshaped) to make these
changes should be included in the bbspv17__ln_changes return file with the
appropriate actions:
Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

21





3.3

AL - if you drew a new line;
DL - if you are deleting a previous boundary of an area landmark; or
CA - if you are using existing edges to bound the area landmark and flagging ('Must
Hold'/'Do Not Hold').

Submitting Legal Boundary Updates

If you want to report a new county, MCD, incorporated place or consolidated city, or
delete an existing one, please contact the CRVRDO at 301-763-4039 or email
[email protected]. If you are reporting other legal boundary changes and/or corrections,
the Census Bureau requires that you submit a change polygon file. The total number of
layers submitted depends on what types of changes are reported.
As stated in Section 2.6, we request that you supply a whole entity file to accompany
any legal boundary updates or boundary corrections that you make to assist us in
making updates. If you made legal boundary updates, then include the following files in
your submission, as applicable to the type of legal boundary update made:
MCD Change Polygon Shapefile
The file should include all change polygons where CHNG_TYPE Field is populated with:
A (Annexation);
B (Boundary Correction); or
D (Deannexation).
Return File Name:
bbspv17__changes_cousub.shp
Whole Entity File Name (if available): bbspv17__wholeentity_cousub.shp
Incorporated Place Change Polygon Shapefile
The file should include change polygons where CHNG_TYPE Field is populated with:
A (Annexation);
B (Boundary Correction); or
D (Deannexation).
Return File Names: bbspv17__changes_incplace.shp
Whole Entity File Name (if available): bbspv17__wholeentity_incplace.shp
Consolidated City Change Polygon Shapefile
Includes change polygons where CHNG_TYPE Field is populated with:
A (Annexation);
B (Boundary Correction); or
D (Deannexation).
Return File Names: bbspv17__changes_ concity.shp
Whole Entity File Name (if available): bbspv17__wholeentity_ concity.shp

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

22

3.4

Submitting Point Landmark Updates

If any updates were completed for point landmarks, select by attribute to select records
that have a value in the CHNG_TYPE field. Export the updated records to a shapefile
named ‘bbspv17__changes_plndk’.
The file should include All Point Landmarks where CHNG_TYPE Field is populated with:
E (New Point Landmark);
G (Change Attribute); or
X (Delete).

3.5

Submitting Block Area Grouping Updates

If you made updates to the block area grouping layer, then include all polygons where
MTFCC = G5035 and CHNG_TYPE Field is populated with:
B (Boundary Correction);
E (New Block Area Grouping);
X (Delete).
Export the updated records to a shapefile named:
‘bbspv17__bag_changes.shp’.

3.6

Creating .ZIP File containing All change files

All returned shapefiles and whole entity shapefiles, as well as any supporting
documentation, should be placed in a .zip file prior to submitting the return to the Census
Bureau: File Name:bbspv17__return.zip.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

23

4. File Submission through SWIM
The Secure Web Incoming Module (SWIM) is a tool for U.S. Census Bureau partners to
send their geospatial data to a Census Bureau server. For security reasons, we cannot
accept files sent via email or through our former ftp site.
The Census Bureau provides each State Redistricting Data Program Liaison a SWIM
token to establish a personal SWIM account. Once registered, you will no longer need
the token to log into the system. You will use your SWIM account to submit updates for
all phases of the 2020 Redistricting Data Program. If you are a participant for other
Census Bureau geographic programs, you may use your SWIM account to submit files
for these other geographic programs too.
Note: For the Redistricting Data Program, including the Phase 1 BBSP, the Census
Bureau will only accept files submitted by the State RDP Liaison. If a county,
agency, or contractor performs work on behalf of the state, the files must be sent
to the State Liaison for review, approval, and submission.
To access the SWIM, enter the following URL in a new browser window:
https://respond.census.gov/swim/. Follow the directions below for account access and
file upload.

4.1

Login Page

The Login page is the first page you will see:

Figure 2: SWIM Login Screen

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

24

4.1.1 If you already have a SWIM Account:
1. Enter your Email address and Password.
2. Click the Login button, which directs you to the Welcome page.

4.1.2 If you do not yet have a SWIM Account:
1. Click the Register Account button, which directs you to the Account
Registration page.
2. Enter the 12 digit Registration Token number provided to you by the Census
Bureau.
3. Complete all other fields.
4. Click the Submit button.

Enter the Registration Token number
provided to you by the Census Bureau.
The name you enter as “First Name” will
be the name that appears on the
Welcome Page.

Complete all the other fields.

Figure 3: SWIM Account Registration Screen

Password Requirements: 8 characters in length
1 uppercase character
1 lowercase character
1 number
1 special character from the following: ! # $ * ? ~

Figure 4: Password Requirements

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

25

4.1.3 Welcome Page
The Welcome Page is where you initiate the file upload process. Because the SWIM
tracks files submitted and the submission date, the page appearance will change after
you have successfully uploaded files.
1. To submit a file, click the Start New Upload button.

This is the name you entered in the “First Name” field.

Figure 5: SWIM Welcome Screen (no previous files uploaded)

If you previously uploaded files, the list of files appears here.

Figure 6: SWIM Welcome Screen (files previously uploaded)

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

26

4.1.4 Geographic Program Page
The Geographic Program Page allows you to select the Census partnership program for
which you are submitting data.
1. Click on the radio button next to Redistricting Data Program – BBSP-VTD
(RDP).
2. Click the Next button.

Click the Redistricting Data Program – BBSPVTD (RDP) radio button, then click the Next
button.

Figure 7: SWIM Geographic Program Page

4.1.5 Select a State
After choosing the Redistricting Data Program (RDP) – BBSP-VTD, you will be directed
to specify the state for which you are submitting data.
1. From the drop down list, click on your state name.
2. Click on the Next button.

Click on the arrow to choose your state,
then click the Next button.

Figure 8: SWIM Select a State Page (for RDP)

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

27

4.1.6 Select a .ZIP File to Upload
Files for upload must be in a .zip format. You can upload only one .zip file at a time.
1. Click on the + Add File button.
2. Navigate to the directory on your computer to choose the .zip file to upload.
3. Complete the Comments box, including pertinent information about data
projection or supporting documentation.
4. Click on the Next button.

Click Add File button, then go to the directory on your computer to
select the file to upload. For BBSP, the filename for submission to
the Census Bureau should be bbspv17_ssccc_return.zip, where
ssccc is the state and county.
The filename appears here after you have selected the file from
your computer directory.
Enter pertinent notes in the Comments box.
When done, click the Next button.

Figure 9: Select a .ZIP File to Upload Page

4.1.7 Thank You Page
The “Thank You” page confirms the receipt of your file submission. If you do not have
any additional files to upload, click on Log Out. The Census Bureau will acknowledge
the receipt of the uploaded file. If you have additional files to upload, click on Upload
Form. This choice returns you to the Welcome screen.

If you have more files to upload, click the
Upload Form link, which returns you to the
Welcome Screen to start a new upload.
If you’re done uploading files, click the
Log Out link.

Figure 10: Thank You Page

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

28

Updates Allowed, by MTFCC
A.1

Area Landmark / Hydrographic Area Updates Permitted
MTFCC

DESCRIPTION

C3023

Island

H2030

Lake/Pond

H2040

Reservoir

H2041

Treatment Pond

H2051

Bay/Estuary/Gulf/Sound

H2081

Glacier

K1231

Hospital

K1235

Juvenile Institution

K1236

Local Jail or Detention Center

K1237

Federal Penitentiary, State Prison, or Prison Farm

K2110

Military Installation

K2131

Hospital/Hospice/Urgent Care Facility

K2180

Park

K2181

National Park Service Land

K2182

National Forest or Other Federal Land

K2183

Tribal Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2184

State Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2185

Regional Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2186

County Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2187

County Subdivision Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2188

Incorporated Place Park, Forest, or Recreation Area

K2189

K2424

Private Park, Forest, or Recreation Area
Other Park, Forest, or Recreation Area (quasi-public, independent
park, commission, etc.)
Marina

K2457

Airport - Area Representation

K2540

University or College

K2561

Golf Course

K2582

Cemetery

K2190

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

A-1

A.2

Linear Feature Updates Permitted
MTFCC

DESCRIPTION

C3024

Levee

C3027

Dam

H3010

Stream/River

H3013

Braided Stream

H3020

Canal, Ditch, or Aqueduct

K2432

Pier/Dock

K2459

Runway/Taxiway

L4010

Pipeline

L4020

Power Line

L4110

Fence Line

L4121

Ridge Line

L4125

Cliff/Escarpment

L4130

Point-to Point Line

L4140

Property/Parcel Line (includes PLSS)

L4165

Ferry Crossing

P0001

Nonvisible Legal/Statistical Boundary

P0002

Perennial Shoreline

P0003

R1011

Intermittent Shoreline
Other non-visible bounding edge (e.g., Census water boundary,
boundary of areal feature
Railroad Feature (Main, Spur, or Yard

R1051

Carline, Streetcar Tract Monorail, Other Mass

R1052

Cog Rail Line, Incline Rail Line, Tram

S1100

Primary Road

S1200

Secondary Road

S1400

Local Neighborhood Road, Rural Road, City Street

S1500

Vehicular Trail (4WD)

S1630

Ramp

S1640

Service Drive usually along a limited access highway

S1730

Alley

S1740

Private Road for service vehicles (logging, oil fields, ranches, etc.)

S1820

Bike Path or Trail

P0004

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

A-2

A.3

Point Landmark Updates Permitted
MTFCC
C3022
C3061
C3062
K2451

DESCRITPION
Mountain Peak or Summit
(Attribute modification and deletions not allowed
because sourced from GNIS)
Cul-de-sac
Traffic Circle
Airport of Airfield
(Attribute modification and deletions not allowed
because sourced from GNIS)

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

A-3

MTFCC Descriptions
The MAF/TIGER Feature Classification Code (MTFCC) is a 5-digit code assigned by the
Census Bureau to classify and describe geographic objects or features in Census
Bureau MAF/TIGER products.
MTFCC

Feature Class

Feature Class Description

C3022
C3023

Mountain Peak or
Summit
Island

C3024

Levee

C3026

C3027

Quarry (not waterfilled), Open Pit Mine or
Mine
Dam

C3061

Cul-de-sac

C3062

Traffic Circle

C3066

Gate

A prominent elevation rising above the surrounding level
of the Earth's surface.
An area of dry or relatively dry land surrounded by water
or low wetland. [including archipelago, atoll, cay,
hammock, hummock, isla, isle, key, moku and rock].
An embankment flanking a stream or other flowing water
feature to prevent overflow.
An area from which commercial minerals are or were
removed from the Earth; not including an oilfield or gas
field.
A barrier built across the course of a stream to impound
water and/or control water flow.
An expanded paved area at the end of a street used by
vehicles for turning around. For mapping purposes, the
U.S. Census Bureau maps it only as a point feature.
A circular intersection allowing for continuous movement
of traffic at the meeting of roadways.
A movable barrier across a road.

C3067

Toll Booth

C3071

Lookout Tower

C3074

Lighthouse Beacon

C3075

Tank/Tank Farm

C3076

Windmill Farm

C3077

Solar Farm

C3078

Monument or Memorial

C3079

Boundary Monument
Point

C3080

Survey Control Point

C3081

Locality Point

A structure or barrier where a fee is collected for using a
road.
A manmade structure, higher than its diameter, used for
observation.
A manmade structure, higher than its diameter, used for
transmission of light and possibly sound generally to aid
in navigation.
One or more manmade structures, each higher than its
diameter, used for liquid (other than water) or gas storage
or for distribution activities.
One or more manmade structures used to generate
power from the wind.
One or more manmade structures used to generate
power from the sun.
A manmade structure to educate, commemorate, or
memorialize an event, person, or feature.
A material object placed on or near a boundary line to
preserve and identify the location of the boundary line on
the ground.
A point on the ground whose position (horizontal or
vertical) is known and can be used as a base for
additional survey work.
A point that identifies the location and name of an
unbounded locality (e.g., crossroad, community,

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

B-1

MTFCC

Feature Class

Feature Class Description
populated place or locale).

C3085

Alaska Native Village
Official Point

G2100

American Indian Area

G2120

Hawaiian Home Land

G2130

Alaska Native Village
Statistical Area

G2140

Oklahoma Tribal
Statistical Area

G2150

State-designated Tribal
Statistical Area

G2160

Tribal Designated
Statistical Area

G2170

American Indian Joint
Use Area
Alaska Native Regional
Corporation

G2200

G2300

Tribal Subdivision

G2400

Tribal Census Tract

G2410

Tribal Block Group

A point that serves as the core of an Alaska Native village
and is used in defining Alaska Native village statistical
areas.
A legally defined state- or federally recognized reservation
and/or off-reservation trust land (excludes statistical
American Indian areas).
A legal area held in trust for the benefit of Native
Hawaiians.
A statistical geographic entity that represents the
residences, permanent and/or seasonal, for Alaska
Natives who are members of or receiving governmental
services from the defining legal Alaska Native Village
corporation.
A statistical entity identified and delineated by the Census
Bureau in consultation with federally recognized American
Indian tribes that have no current reservation, but had a
former reservation in Oklahoma.
A statistical geographic entity identified and delineated for
the Census Bureau by a state-appointed liaison for a
state-recognized American Indian tribe that does not
currently have a reservation and/or lands in trust.
A statistical geographic entity identified and delineated for
the Census Bureau by a federally recognized American
Indian tribe that does not currently have a reservation
and/or off-reservation trust land.
An area administered jointly and/or claimed by two or
more American Indian tribes.
Corporate entities established to conduct both business
and nonprofit affairs of Alaska Natives pursuant to the
Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1972 (Public Law
92-203). There are twelve geographically defined ANRCs
and they are all within and cover most of the State of
Alaska (the Annette Island Reserve-an American Indian
reservation-is excluded from any ANRC). The boundaries
of ANRCs have been legally established.
Administrative subdivisions of federally recognized
American Indian reservations, off-reservation trust lands,
or Oklahoma tribal statistical areas (OTSAs). These
entities are internal units of self-government or
administration that serve social, cultural, and/or economic
purposes for the American Indians on the reservations,
off-reservation trust lands, or OTSAs.
A relatively small and permanent statistical subdivision of
a federally recognized American Indian reservation and/or
off-reservation trust land, delineated by American Indian
tribal participants or the Census Bureau for the purpose of
presenting demographic data.
A cluster of census blocks within a single tribal census
tract delineated by American Indian tribal participants or

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

B-2

MTFCC

Feature Class

G3100

Combined Statistical
Area

G3110

Metropolitan and
Micropolitan Statistical
Area

G3120

Metropolitan Division

G3200

Combined New
England City and Town
Area
New England City and
Town Metropolitan and
Micropolitan Statistical
Area

G3210

G3220

New England City and
Town Division

G3500

Urban Area

G4000

State or Equivalent
Feature

G4020

County or Equivalent
Feature

G4040

County Subdivision

G4050

Estate

G4060

Subbarrio (Subminor
Civil Division)

Feature Class Description
the Census Bureau for the purpose of presenting
demographic data.
A grouping of adjacent metropolitan and/or micropolitan
statistical areas that have a degree of economic and
social integration, as measured by commuting.
An area containing a substantial population nucleus
together with adjacent communities having a high degree
of economic and social integration with that core, as
measured by commuting. Defined using whole counties
and equivalents.
A county or grouping of counties that is a subdivision of a
Metropolitan Statistical Area containing an urbanized area
with a population of 2.5 million or more.
A grouping of adjacent New England city and town areas
that have a degree of economic and social integration, as
measured by commuting.
An area containing a substantial population nucleus
together with adjacent communities having a high degree
of economic and social integration with that core, as
measured by commuting. Defined using Minor Civil
Divisions (MCDs) in New England.
A grouping of cities and towns in New England that is a
subdivision of a New England City and Town Area
containing an urbanized area with a population of 2.5
million or more.
Densely settled territory that contains at least 2,500
people. The subtypes of this feature are Urbanized Area
(UA), which consists of 50,000 + people and Urban
Cluster, which ranges between 2,500 and 49,999 people.
The primary governmental divisions of the United States.
The District of Columbia is treated as a statistical
equivalent of a state for census purposes, as is Puerto
Rico.
The primary division of a state or state equivalent area.
The primary divisions of 48 states are termed County, but
other terms are used such as Borough in Alaska, Parish
in Louisiana, and Municipio in Puerto Rico. This feature
includes independent cities, which are incorporated
places that are not part of any county.
The primary divisions of counties and equivalent features
for the reporting of Census Bureau data. The subtypes of
this feature are Minor Civil Division, Census County
Division/Census Subarea, and Unorganized Territory.
This feature includes independent places, which are
incorporated places that are not part of any county
subdivision.
Estates are subdivisions of the three major islands in the
United States Virgin Islands (USVI).
Legally defined divisions (subbarrios) of minor civil
divisions (barrios-pueblo and barrios) in Puerto Rico.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

B-3

MTFCC

Feature Class

Feature Class Description

G4110

Incorporated Place

G4120

Consolidated City

G4210

Census Designated
Place

G4300

Economic Census
Place

G5020

Census Tract

G5030

Block Group

G5035

Block Area Grouping

G5040

Tabulation Block

G5200

Congressional District

A legal entity incorporated under state law to provide
general-purpose governmental services to a
concentration of population. Incorporated places are
generally designated as a city, borough, municipality,
town, village, or, in a few instances, have no legal
description.
An incorporated place that has merged governmentally
with a county or minor civil division, but one or more of the
incorporated places continues to function within the
consolidation. It is a place that contains additional
separately incorporated places.
A statistical area defined for a named concentration of
population and the statistical counterpart of an
incorporated place.
The lowest level of geographic area for presentation of
some types of Economic Census data. It includes
incorporated places, consolidated cities, census
designated places (CDPs), minor civil divisions (MCDs) in
selected states, and balances of MCDs or counties. An
incorporated place, CDP, MCD, or balance of MCD
qualifies as an economic census place if it contains 5,000
or more residents, or 5,000 or more jobs, according to the
most current data available.
Relatively permanent statistical subdivisions of a County
or equivalent feature delineated by local participants as
part of the Census Bureau's Participant Statistical Areas
Program.
A cluster of census blocks having the same first digit of
their four-digit identifying numbers within a Census Tract.
For example, block group 3 (BG 3) within a Census Tract
includes all blocks numbered from 3000 to 3999.
A user-defined group of islands forming a single census
tabulation block. A BAG must: (1) consist of two or more
islands, (2) have a perimeter entirely over water, (3) not
overlap, and (4) not cross the boundary of other tabulation
geographies, such as county or incorporated place
boundaries.
The lowest-order census defined statistical area. It is an
area, such as a city block, bounded primarily by physical
features but sometimes by invisible city or property
boundaries. A tabulation block boundary does not cross
the boundary of any other geographic area for which the
Census Bureau tabulates data. The subtypes of this
feature are Count Question Resolution (CQR), current,
and census.
The 435 areas from which people are elected to the U.S.
House of Representatives. Additional equivalent features
exist for state equivalents with nonvoting delegates or no
representative. The subtypes of this feature are 106th,
107th, 108th, 109th, and 111th Congressional Districts,
plus subsequent Congresses.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

B-4

MTFCC

Feature Class

Feature Class Description

G5210

State Legislative District
(Upper Chamber

G5220

State Legislative District
(Lower Chamber)

G5240

Voting District

G5400

Elementary School
District
Secondary School
District
Unified School District

G6120

Public-Use Microdata
Area

G6300

Traffic Analysis District

G6320

Traffic Analysis Zone

G6330

Urban Growth Area

G6350
G6400

Zip Code Tabulation
Area (Five-Digit)
Commercial Region

H1100

Connector

H2025

Swamp/Marsh

H2030

Lake/Pond

Areas established by a state or equivalent government
from which members are elected to the upper or
unicameral chamber of a state governing body. The upper
chamber is the senate in a bicameral legislature, and the
unicameral case is a single house legislature (Nebraska).
Areas established by a state or equivalent government
from which members are elected to the lower chamber of
a state governing body. The lower chamber is the House
of Representatives in a bicameral legislature.
The generic name for the geographic features, such as
precincts, wards, and election districts, established by
state, local, and tribal governments for the purpose of
conducting elections.
A geographic area within which officials provide public
elementary grade-level educational services for residents.
A geographic area within which officials provide public
secondary grade-level educational services for residents.
A geographic area within which officials provide public
educational services for all grade levels for residents.
A decennial census area with a population of at least
100,000 or more persons for which the Census Bureau
provides selected extracts of household-level data that
are screened to protect confidentiality.
An area delineated by Metropolitan Planning
Organizations (MPOs) and state Departments of
Transportation (DOTs) for tabulating journey-to-work and
place-of-work data. A Traffic Analysis District (TAD)
consists of one or more Traffic Analysis Zones (TAZs).
An area delineated by Metropolitan Planning
Organizations (MPOs) and state Departments of
Transportation (DOTs) for tabulating journey-to-work and
place-of-work data.
An area defined under state authority to manage
urbanization that the U.S. Census Bureau includes in the
MAF/TIGER® Database in agreement with the state.
An approximate statistical-area representation of a U.S.
Postal Service (USPS) 5-digit ZIP Code service area.
For the purpose of presenting economic statistical data,
municipios in Puerto Rico are grouped into commercial
regions.
A known, but nonspecific, hydrographic connection
between two nonadjacent water features.
A poorly drained wetland, fresh or saltwater, wooded or
grassy, possibly covered with open water. [includes bog,
cienega, marais and pocosin].
A standing body of water that is surrounded by land.

H2040

Reservoir

An artificially impounded body of water.

H2041

Treatment Pond

An artificial body of water built to treat fouled water.

H2051

Bay/Estuary/Gulf/Sound

A body of water partly surrounded by land. [includes arm,

G5410
G5420

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

B-5

MTFCC

Feature Class

Feature Class Description
bight, cove and inlet].

H2053

Ocean/Sea

H2060
H2081

Gravel Pit/Quarry filled
with water
Glacier

H3010

Stream/River

H3013

Braided Stream

H3020

Canal, Ditch or
Aqueduct

K1225

Crew-of-Vessel
Location

K1231

Hospital/Hospice/Urgen
t Care Facility
Juvenile Institution

K1235

K1236

Local Jail or Detention
Center

K1237

Federal Penitentiary,
State Prison, or Prison
Farm
Other Correctional
Institution

K1238

K1239

K1246

Convent, Monastery,
Rectory, Other
Religious Group
Quarters
Community Center

K2110

Military Installation

K2165

Government Center

The great body of salt water that covers much of the
earth.
A body of water in a place or area from which commercial
minerals were removed from the Earth.
A body of ice moving outward and down slope from an
area of accumulation; an area of relatively permanent
snow or ice on the top or side of a mountain or
mountainous area [includes ice field and ice patch].
A natural flowing waterway [includes anabranch, awawa,
branch, brook, creek, distributary, fork, kill, pup, rio, and
run].
A natural flowing waterway with an intricate network of
interlacing channels.
An artificial waterway constructed to transport water, to
irrigate or drain land, to connect two or more bodies of
water, or to serve as a waterway for watercraft [includes
lateral].
A point or area in which the population of military or
merchant marine vessels at sea are assigned, usually
being at or near the home port pier.
One or more structures where the sick or injured may
receive medical or surgical attention [including infirmary].
A facility (correctional and non-correctional) where groups
of juveniles reside; this includes training schools,
detention centers, residential treatment centers and
orphanages.
One or more structures that serve as a place for the
confinement of adult persons in lawful detention,
administered by a local (county, municipal, etc.)
government.
An institution that serves as a place for the confinement of
adult persons in lawful detention, administered by the
federal government or a state government.
One or more structures that serve as a place for the
confinement of adult persons in lawful detention, not
elsewhere classified or administered by a government of
unknown jurisdiction.
One or more structures intended for use as a residence
for those having a religious vocation.

Community Center.
An area owned and/or occupied by the Department of
Defense for use by a branch of the armed forces (such as
the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard), or a
state owned area for the use of the National Guard.
A place used by members of government (either federal,
state, local, or tribal) for administration and public

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

B-6

MTFCC

Feature Class

Feature Class Description
business.

K2167

Convention Center

K2183

Tribal Park, Forest, or
Recreation Area

K2184

State Park, Forest, or
Recreation Area

K2185

Regional Park, Forest,
or Recreation Area

K2186

County Park, Forest, or
Recreation Area

K2187

K2191

County Subdivision
Park, Forest, or
Recreation Area
Incorporated Place
Park, Forest, or
Recreation Area
Private Park, Forest, or
Recreation Area
Other Park, Forest, or
Recreation Area (quasipublic, independent
park, commission, etc.)
Post Office

K2193

Fire Department

An exhibition hall or conference center with enough open
space to host public and private business and social
events.
Parkland defined and administered by federal, state, and
local governments.
Area—National parks, National Monuments, and so
forth—under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service.
Land under the management and jurisdiction of the
federal government, specifically including areas
designated as National Forest, and excluding areas under
the jurisdiction of the National Park Service.
A place or area set aside for recreation or preservation of
a cultural or natural resource and under the administration
of an American Indian tribe.
A place or area set aside for recreation or preservation of
a cultural or natural resource and under the administration
of a state government.
A place or area set aside for recreation or preservation of
a cultural or natural resource and under the administration
of a regional government.
A place or area set aside for recreation or preservation of
a cultural or natural resource and under the administration
of a county government.
A place or area set aside for recreation or preservation of
a cultural or natural resource and under the administration
of a minor civil division (town/township) government.
A place or area set aside for recreation or preservation of
a cultural or natural resource and under the administration
of a municipal government.
A privately owned place or area set aside for recreation or
preservation of a cultural or natural resource.
A place or area set aside for recreation or preservation of
a cultural or natural resource and under the administration
of some other type of government or agency such as an
independent park authority or commission.
An official facility of the U.S. Postal Service used for
processing and distributing mail and other postal material.
Fire Department.

K2180

Park

K2181

National Park Service
Land
National Forest or
Other Federal Land

K2194

Police Station

Police Station.

K2195

Library

Library.

K2196

City/Town Hall

City/Town Hall.

K2400

Transportation Terminal

K2424

Marina

K2432

Pier/Dock

A facility where one or more modes of transportation can
be accessed by people or for the shipment of goods;
examples of such a facility include marine terminal, bus
station, train station, airport and truck warehouse.
A place where privately owned, light-craft are moored.
A platform built out from the shore into the water and

K2182

K2188

K2189
K2190

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

B-7

MTFCC

Feature Class

K2451

Airport or Airfield

K2452

K2453

Train Station, Trolley or
Mass Transit Rail
Station
Bus Terminal

K2454

Marine Terminal

K2455

Seaplane Anchorage

K2456

K2459

Airport—Intermodal
Transportation
Hub/Terminal
Airport—Statistical
Representation
Park and Ride
Facility/Parking Lot
Runway/Taxiway

K2460

Helicopter Landing Pad

K2540

University or College

K2543

School or Academy

K2545

K2561

Museum, Visitor
Center, Cultural Center,
or Tourist Attraction
Golf Course

K2582

Cemetery

K2586

Zoo

K3544

Place of Worship

L4010

Pipeline

K2457
K2458

Feature Class Description
supported by piles. This platform may provide access to
ships and boats, or it may be used for recreational
purposes.
A manmade facility maintained for the use of aircraft
[including airstrip, landing field and landing strip].
A place where travelers can board and exit rail transit
lines, including associated ticketing, freight, and other
commercial offices.
A place where travelers can board and exit mass motor
vehicle transit, including associated ticketing, freight, and
other commercial offices.
A place where travelers can board and exit water transit
or where cargo is handled, including associated ticketing,
freight, and other commercial offices.
A place where an airplane equipped with floats for landing
on or taking off from a body of water can debark and load.
A major air transportation facility where travelers can
board and exit airplanes and connect with other (i.e. nonair) modes of transportation.
The area of an airport adjusted to include whole 2000
census blocks used for the delineation of urban areas
A place where motorists can park their cars and transfer
to other modes of transportation.
A fairly level and usually paved expanse used by
airplanes for taking off and landing at an airport.
A fairly level and usually paved expanse used by
helicopters for taking off and landing.
A building or group of buildings used as an institution for
post-secondary study, teaching, and learning [including
seminary].
A building or group of buildings used as an institution for
preschool, elementary or secondary study, teaching, and
learning [including elementary school and high school].
An attraction of historical, cultural, educational or other
interest that provides information or displays artifacts.
A place designed for playing golf.
A place or area for burying the dead [including burying
ground and memorial garden].
A facility in which terrestrial and/or marine animals are
confined within enclosures and displayed to the public for
educational, preservation, and research purposes.
A sanctified place or structure where people gather for
religious worship; examples include church, synagogue,
temple, and mosque.
A long tubular conduit or series of pipes, often
underground, with pumps and valves for flow control,
used to transport fluid (e.g., crude oil, natural gas),
especially over great distances.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

B-8

MTFCC

Feature Class

Feature Class Description

L4020

Powerline

L4031

Aerial Tramway/Ski Lift

L4110

Fence Line

L4121

Ridge Line

One or more wires, often on elevated towers, used for
conducting high-voltage electric power.
A conveyance that transports passengers or freight in
carriers suspended from cables and supported by a series
of towers.
A man-made barrier enclosing or bordering a field, yard,
etc., usually made of posts and wire or wood, used to
prevent entrance, to confine, or to mark a boundary.
The line of highest elevation along a ridge.

L4125

Cliff/Escarpment

L4130

Point-to-Point Line

L4140

Property/Parcel Line
(Including PLSS)

L4150

Coastline

L4165

Ferry Crossing

P0001

P0002

Nonvisible Linear
Legal/Statistical
Boundary
Perennial Shoreline

P0003

Intermittent Shoreline

P0004

Other non-visible
bounding Edge (e.g.,
Census water
boundary, boundary of
an areal feature)

R1011

Railroad Feature (Main,
Spur, or Yard)

R1051

Carline, Streetcar
Track, Monorail, Other
Mass Transit

A very steep or vertical slope [including bluff, crag, head,
headland, nose, palisades, precipice, promontory, rim and
rimrock].
A line defined as beginning at one location point and
ending at another, both of which are in sight.
This feature class may denote a nonvisible boundary of
either public or private lands (e.g., a park boundary) or it
may denote a Public Land Survey System or equivalent
survey line.
The line that separates either land or Inland water from
Coastal, Territorial or Great Lakes water. Where land
directly borders Coastal, Territorial or Great Lakes water,
the shoreline represents the Coastline. Where Inland
water (such as a river) flows into Coastal, Territorial or
Great Lakes water, the closure line separating the Inland
water from the other class of water represents the
Coastline.
The route used to carry or convey people or cargo back
and forth over a waterbody in a boat.
A legal/statistical boundary line that does not correspond
to a shoreline or other visible feature on the ground.
The more-or-less permanent boundary between land and
water for a water feature that exists year-round.
The boundary between land and water (when water is
present) for a water feature that does not exist yearround.
A bounding Edge that does not represent a
legal/statistical boundary, and does not correspond to a
shoreline or other visible feature on the ground. Many
such Edges bound area landmarks, while many others
separate water features from each other (e.g., where a
bay meets the ocean).
A line of fixed rails or tracks that carries mainstream
railroad traffic. Such a rail line can be a main line or spur
line, or part of a rail yard.
Mass transit rail lines (including lines for rapid transit,
monorails, streetcars, light rail, etc.) that are typically
inaccessible to mainstream railroad traffic and whose
tracks are not part of a road right-of-way.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

B-9

MTFCC

Feature Class

Feature Class Description

R1052

Cog Rail Line, Incline
Rail Line, Tram

S1100

Primary Road

S1200

Secondary Road

S1400

Local Neighborhood
Road, Rural Road, City
Street

S1500

Vehicular Trail (4WD)

S1630

Ramp

S1640

S1720

Service Drive usually
along a limited access
highway
Walkway/Pedestrian
Trail
Stairway

S1730

Alley

S1740

S1780

Private Road for service
vehicles (logging, oil
fields, ranches, etc.)
Internal U.S. Census
Bureau use
Parking Lot Road

A special purpose rail line for climbing steep grades that
is typically inaccessible to mainstream railroad traffic.
Note that aerial tramways and streetcars (which may also
be called “trams”) are accounted for by other MTFCCs
and do not belong in R1052.
Primary roads are generally divided, limited-access
highways within the interstate highway system or under
state management, and are distinguished by the presence
of interchanges. These highways are accessible by ramps
and may include some toll highways.
Secondary roads are main arteries, usually in the U.S.
Highway, State Highway or County Highway system.
These roads have one or more lanes of traffic in each
direction, may or may not be divided, and usually have atgrade intersections with many other roads and driveways.
They often have both a local name and a route number.
Generally a paved non-arterial street, road, or byway that
usually has a single lane of traffic in each direction. Roads
in this feature class may be privately or publicly
maintained. Scenic park roads would be included in this
feature class, as would (depending on the region of the
country) some unpaved roads.
An unpaved dirt trail where a four-wheel drive vehicle is
required. These vehicular trails are found almost
exclusively in very rural areas. Minor, unpaved roads
usable by ordinary cars and trucks belong in the S1400
category.
A road that allows controlled access from adjacent roads
onto a limited access highway, often in the form of a
cloverleaf interchange. These roads are unaddressable
and do not carry a name in MAF/TIGER.
A road, usually paralleling a limited access highway, that
provides access to structures along the highway. These
roads can be named and may intersect with other roads.
A path that is used for walking, being either too narrow for
or legally restricted from vehicular traffic.
A pedestrian passageway from one level to another by a
series of steps.
A service road that does not generally have associated
addressed structures and is usually unnamed. It is located
at the rear of buildings and properties and is used for
deliveries.
A road within private property that is privately maintained
for service, extractive, or other purposes. These roads are
often unnamed.
Internal U.S. Census Bureau use.

S1820

Bike Path or Trail

S1710

S1750

The main travel route for vehicles through a paved
parking area.
A path that is used for manual or small, motorized

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

B-10

MTFCC

Feature Class

S1830

Bridle Path

S2000

Road Median

Feature Class Description
bicycles, being either too narrow for or legally restricted
from vehicular traffic.
A path that is used for horses, being either too narrow for
or legally restricted from vehicular traffic.
The unpaved area or barrier between the carriageways of
a divided road.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

B-11

Street Type Abbreviations
Street Name Type

Standard Abbreviation

ALLEY
ANEX
ARCADE
AVENUE
BAYOU
BEACH
BEND
BLUFF
BLUFFS
BOTTOM
BOULEVARD
BRANCH
BRIDGE
BROOK
BROOKS
BURG
BURGS
BYPASS
CAMP
CANYON
CAPE
CAUSEWAY
CENTER
CENTERS
CIRCLE
CIRCLES
CLIFF
CLIFFS
CLUB
COMMON
COMMONS
CORNER
CORNERS
COURSE
COURT
COURTS
COVE

ALY
ANX
ARC
AVE
BYU
BCH
BND
BLF
BLFS
BTM
BLVD
BR
BRG
BRK
BRKS
BG
BGS
BYP
CP
CYN
CPE
CSWY
CTR
CTRS
CIR
CIRS
CLF
CLFS
CLB
CMN
CMNS
COR
CORS
CRSE
CT
CTS
CV

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

C-1

Street Name Type

Standard Abbreviation

COVES
CREEK
CRESCENT
CREST
CROSSING
CROSSROAD
CROSSROADS
CURVE
DALE
DAM
DIVIDE
DRIVE
DRIVES
ESTATE
ESTATES
EXPRESSWAY
EXTENSION
EXTENSIONS
FALL
FALLS
FERRY
FIELD
FIELDS
FLAT
FLATS
FORD
FORDS
FOREST
FORGE
FORGES
FORK
FORKS
FORT
FREEWAY
GARDEN
GARDENS
GATEWAY
GLEN
GLENS

CVS
CRK
CRES
CRST
XING
XRD
XRDS
CURV
DL
DM
DV
DR
DRS
EST
ESTS
EXPY
EXT
EXTS
FALL
FLS
FRY
FLD
FLDS
FLT
FLTS
FRD
FRDS
FRST
FRG
FRGS
FRK
FRKS
FT
FWY
GDN
GDNS
GTWY
GLN
GLNS

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

C-2

Street Name Type

Standard Abbreviation

GREEN
GREENS
GROVE
GROVES
HARBOR
HARBORS
HAVEN
HEIGHTS
HIGHWAY
HILL
HILLS
HOLLOW
INLET
ISLAND
ISLANDS
ISLE
JUNCTION
JUNCTIONS
KEY
KEYS
KNOLL
KNOLLS
LAKE
LAKES
LAND
LANDING
LANE
LIGHT
LIGHTS
LOAF
LOCK
LOCKS
LODGE
LOOP
MALL
MANOR
MANORS
MEADOW
MEADOWS

GRN
GRNS
GRV
GRVS
HBR
HBRS
HVN
HTS
HWY
HL
HLS
HOLW
INLT
IS
ISS
ISLE
JCT
JCTS
KY
KYS
KNL
KNLS
LK
LKS
LAND
LNDG
LN
LGT
LGTS
LF
LCK
LCKS
LDG
LOOP
MALL
MNR
MNRS
MDW
MDWS

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

C-3

Street Name Type

Standard Abbreviation

MEWS
MILL
MILLS
MISSION
MOTORWAY
MOUNT
MOUNTAIN
MOUNTAINS
NECK
ORCHARD
OVAL
OVERPASS
PARK
PARKS
PARKWAY
PARKWAYS
PASS
PASSAGE
PATH
PIKE
PINE
PINES
PLACE
PLAIN
PLAINS
PLAZA
POINT
POINTS
PORT
PORTS
PRAIRIE
RADIAL
RAMP
RANCH
RAPID
RAPIDS
REST
RIDGE
RIDGES

MEWS
ML
MLS
MSN
MTWY
MT
MTN
MTNS
NCK
ORCH
OVAL
OPAS
PARK
PARK
PKWY
PKWY
PASS
PSGE
PATH
PIKE
PNE
PNES
PL
PLN
PLNS
PLZ
PT
PTS
PRT
PRTS
PR
RADL
RAMP
RNCH
RPD
RPDS
RST
RDG
RDGS

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

C-4

Street Name Type

Standard Abbreviation

RIVER
ROAD
ROADS
ROUTE
ROW
RUE
RUN
SHOAL
SHOALS
SHORE
SHORES
SKYWAY
SPRING
SPRINGS
SPUR
SPURS
SQUARE
SQUARES
STATION
STRAVENUE
STREAM
STREET
STREETS
SUMMIT
TERRACE
THROUGHWAY
TRACE
TRACK
TRAFFICWAY
TRAIL
TRAILER
TUNNEL
TURNPIKE
UNDERPASS
UNION
UNIONS
VALLEY
VALLEYS
VIADUCT

RIV
RD
RDS
RTE
ROW
RUE
RUN
SHL
SHLS
SHR
SHRS
SKWY
SPG
SPGS
SPUR
SPUR
SQ
SQS
STA
STRA
STRM
ST
STS
SMT
TER
TRWY
TRCE
TRAK
TRFY
TRL
TRLR
TUNL
TPKE
UPAS
UN
UNS
VLY
VLYS
VIA

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

C-5

Street Name Type

Standard Abbreviation

VIEW
VIEWS
VILLAGE
VILLAGES
VILLE
VISTA
WALK
WALKS
WALL
WAY
WAYS
WELL
WELLS

VW
VWS
VLG
VLGS
VL
VIS
WALK
WALK
WALL
WAY
WAYS
WL
WLS

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

C-6

Partnership Shapefile Data Dictionary
Shapefile Layer

Geographic
Level


Name

American Indian Areas (AIA) - Legal

County/State

Aial

American Indian / Alaska Native Areas (AIANA) - Statistical

County/State

Aias

American Indian Tribal Subdivisions (AITS) - Legal

County/State

Aitsl

American Indian Tribal Subdivisions (AITS) - Statistical

County/State

Aitss

Alaska Native Regional Corporations (ANRC)

County/State

Anrc

Area Landmark

County only

Arealm

Block Area Grouping

County/State

Bag

Census Block Groups

County only

Bg

Block Size Indicator

County only

Block

Metropolitan/ Micropolitan Statistical Area

County/State

Cbsa

County Subdivisions – Statistical

County/State

Ccd

Congressional Districts (CD)

County/State

Cd

Census Designated Places (CDP)

County/State

Cdp

Consolidated Cities

County only

Concity

Counties and Equivalent Areas

County/State

County

Census Tracts

County only

Curtracts

Edges (All Lines)

County only

Edges

School Districts (Elementary)

County/State

Elsd

County Subdivisions – Legal

County/State

Mcd

New England City and Town Area

County/State

Necta

Offsets

County only

Offset

Incorporated Places

County/State

Place

Point Landmarks

County only

Pointlm

Public Use Microdata Areas – Census 2010

County/State

Puma2010

School Districts (Secondary)

County/State

Scsd

State Legislative Districts (Lower/House)

County/State

Sldl

State Legislative Districts (Upper/Senate)

County/State

Sldu

States and Equivalent Areas

State only

State

Subbarrios

County only

Submcd

Census Blocks - Current

County only

Tabblock

Census Blocks – Census 2010

County only

Tabblock2010

Traffic Analysis Districts – Census 2010

County only

Tad2010

Traffic Analysis Zone

County only

Taz2010

Tribal Block Group

County/State

Tbg

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-1

Geographic
Level

Shapefile Layer


Name

Census Tracts – Census 2010

County/State

Tracts2010

Urban Area/ Urban Cluster – Census 2010

County/State

Uac

Urban Growth Areas (UGA)

County only

Uga

School Districts (Unified)

County/State

Unsd

Hydrography - Area

County only

Water

Address Ranges (Relationship Table)

County

Addr

Linear Feature Names (Relationship Table)

County

Allnames

Topological Faces - Area Landmark Relationship

County

Areafaces

Topological Faces (Listing of faces with all geocodes)

County

Faces

Topological Faces - Area Hydrography Relationship

County

Hydrofaces

American Indian Areas - Legal
ATTRIBUTE
FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP*

3

String

FIPS County Code

AIANNHCE

4

String

Census AIANNH Code

COMPTYP

1

String

Indicates if reservation (or equivalent) or offreservation trust land is present, or both

AIANNHFSR

1

String

Flag indicating level of recognition of an
American Indian, Alaska Native, or Native
Hawaiian tribe or group.

NAMELSAD

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

AIANNHNS

8

String

ANSI numeric identifier for AIANNH Areas

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

CLASSFP

2

String

FIPS55 class code describing entity

PARTFLG*

1

String

Part Flag Indicator

CHNG_TYPE

2

String

Type of area update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

120

String

Supporting documentation

FORM_ID

4

String

Record ID for any boundary update

AREA

10

Numeric (3
decimal places)

Acreage of area update

RELATE

120

String

Relationship description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

NAME

100

String

Name

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

DOCU

VINTAGE

DESCRIPTION

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-2

American Indian / Alaska Native Areas – Statistical
ATTRIBUTE
FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP*

3

String

FIPS County Code

AIANNHCE

4

String

COMPTYP

1

AIANNHFSR

1

Census AIANNH Code
Indicates if reservation (or equivalent) or offreservation trust land is present, or both
Flag indicating level of recognition of an American
Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian tribe or
group.

NAMELSAD

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

AIANNHNS

8

String

ANSI numeric identifier for AIANNH Areas

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

CLASSFP

2

String

FIPS55 class code describing entity

1

String

Part Flag Indicator

CHNG_TYPE

2

String

Type of area update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

RELATE

120

String

Relationship description

JUSTIFY

150

Justification

2

Char
String

100

String

Name

STATEFP

String
String

LSAD

PARTFLG*

VINTAGE
NAME

DESCRIPTION

Vintage updated with returned data

American Indian Tribal Subdivisions – Legal
ATTRIBUTE
FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP*

3

String

FIPS County Code

AIANNHCE

4

String

Census AIANNH Code

TRIBSUBCE

1

String

Census Tribal subdivision

NAMELSAD

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

AIANNHNS

8

String

ANSI numeric identifier for AIANNH Areas

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

CLASSFP

2

String

FIPS55 class code describing entity

PARTFLG*

1

String

Part Flag Indicator

CHNG_TYPE

2

String

Type of area update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

120

String

Supporting documentation

FORM_ID

4

AREA

10

RELATE

120

String
Numeric (3
decimal places)
String

DOCU

DESCRIPTION

Record ID for any boundary update
Acreage of area update
Relationship description

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-3

ATTRIBUTE
FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

DESCRIPTION

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

NAME

100

String

Name

VINTAGE

2

String

AIANNHFSR

1

String

Vintage updated with returned data
Flag indicating level of recognition of an American
Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian tribe or
group.

American Indian Tribal Subdivisions - Statistical
ATTRIBUTE
FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP*

3

String

FIPS County Code

AIANNHCE

4

String

Census AIANNH Code

TRIBSUBCE

1

String

Census Tribal subdivision

NAMELSAD

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

AIANNHNS

8

String

ANSI numeric identifier for AIANNH Areas

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

CLASSFP

2

String

FIPS55 class code describing entity

PARTFLG*

1

String

Part Flag Indicator

CHNG_TYPE

2

String

Type of area update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

120

String

Supporting documentation

4

String

Record ID for any boundary update

AREA

10

Numeric (3
decimal places)

Acreage of area update

RELATE

120

String

Relationship description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

NAME

DOCU
FORM_ID

DESCRIPTION

100

String

Name

VINTAGE

2

String

AIANNHFSR

1

String

Vintage updated with returned data
Flag indicating level of recognition of an
American Indian, Alaska Native, or Native
Hawaiian tribe or group.

Alaska Native Regional Corporations
ATTRIBUTE
FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP*

3

String

FIPS County Code

ANRCFP

5

String

FIPS ANRC Code (State Based)

ANRCCE

2

String

Current Census ANRC Code

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

NAMELSAD

DESCRIPTION

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-4

ATTRIBUTE
FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

DESCRIPTION

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

AIANNHNS

8

String

ANSI numeric identifier for AIANNH Areas

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

CLASSFP

2

String

FIPS55 class code describing entity

PARTFLG*

1

String

Part Flag Indicator

CHNG_TYPE

2

String

Type of area update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

120

String

Supporting documentation

FORM_ID

4

AREA

10

RELATE

120

String
Numeric (3
decimal places)
String

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

NAME

100

String

Name

VINTAGE

2

String

AIANHFSR

1

String

Vintage updated with returned data
Flag indicating level of recognition of an
American Indian, Alaska Native, or Native
Hawaiian tribe or group.

DOCU

Record ID for any boundary update
Acreage of area update
Relationship description

Block Size Indicator
LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

ATTRIBUTE FIELD

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

TRACTCE

6

String

Census Tract Code

BLOCKCE

4

String

Tabulation Block Number

BLOCKID

19

String

FIPS State Code, FIPS County Code, Census
Tract Code, Tabulation Block Number, Census
Block Suffix 1, Census Block Suffix 2

AREALAND

14

AREAWATER

10

LWBLKTYP

1

String

Land/Water Block Type: B = Both Land and
Water; L = Land; W = Water

PERIMETER

9

String

Perimeter of Block in Meters

SHAPEIDX

9

String

(√ (4πA/P2), where A=Area of block & P =
Perimeter of block

BLKSZIND

1

String

Block Size Indicator

Numeric
(3 decimal
places)
Numeric
(3 decimal
places)

DESCRIPTION

Current Area Land in Square Meters

Current Area Water in Square Meters

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-5

Congressional Districts
ATTRIBUTE
FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP*

3

String

FIPS County Code

CDFP

2

String

Congressional District Code

CDTYP

1

String

Congressional District Type

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

CHNG_TYPE

2

String

Type of Area Update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective date or vintage

NEW_CODE

2

String

New Congressional District Code

RELTYPE1

2

String

Relationship Type 1

RELTYPE2

2

String

Relationship Type 2

RELTYPE3

2

String

Relationship Type 3

RELTYPE4

2

String

Relationship Type 4

RELTYPE5

2

String

Relationship Type 5

REL_ENT1

8

String

Relationship Entity 1

REL_ENT2

8

String

Relationship Entity 2

REL_ENT3

8

String

Relationship Entity 3

REL_ENT4

8

String

Relationship Entity 4

REL_ENT5

8

String

Relationship Entity 5

RELATE

120

String

Relationship Description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

3

String

Congressional District Session Code

100

String

Name

VINTAGE

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

NAMELSAD

CDSESSN
NAME

DESCRIPTION

Hawaiian Home Lands
ATTRIBUTE
FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

DESCRIPTION

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP*

3

String

FIPS County Code

AIANNHCE

4

String

Census AIANNH Code

COMPTYP

1

String

Indicates if reservation (or equivalent) or offreservation trust land is present, or both

NAMELSAD

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

AIANNHNS

8

String

ANSI numeric identifier for AIANNH Areas

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

CLASSFP

2

String

FIPS55 class code describing entity

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-6

ATTRIBUTE
FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

PARTFLG*

1

String

Part Flag Indicator

CHNG_TYPE

2

String

Type of area update

EFF_DATE

DESCRIPTION

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

120

String

Supporting documentation

FORM_ID

4

AREA

10

RELATE

120

String
Numeric
(3 decimal
places)
String

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

VINTAGE

2

String

AIANNHFSR

1

String

100

String

Vintage updated with returned data
Flag indicating level of recognition of an American
Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian tribe or
group.
Name

DOCU

NAME

Record ID for any boundary update
Acreage of area update
Relationship description

School Districts
ATTRIBUTE
FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP*

3

String

FIPS County Code

SDLEA

5

String

Current Local Education Agency Code

NAME

100

String

Name of School District

LSAD

2

Integer

HIGRADE

2

String

LOGRADE

2

String

PARTFLG*

1

String

POLYID

4

String

CHNG_TYPE

1

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description
Highest grade for which the district is financially
responsible
Lowest grade for which the district is financially
responsible
Part Flag Indicator
Record ID for each update polygon for linking back to
the submission log
Type of area update

EFF_DATE

DESCRIPTION

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

RELATE

120

String

Relationship description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

FUNCSTAT

3

String

Functional Status

VINTAGE

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

State Legislative Districts (Upper/Senate)
LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

ATTRIBUTE FIELD

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP*

3

String

FIPS County Code

3

String

SLD Upper Chamber Code

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

SLDUST
NAMELSAD

DESCRIPTION

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-7

ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

DESCRIPTION

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

PARTFLG*

1

String

Part Flag Indicator

CHNG_TYPE

2

String

Type of area update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

NEW_NAME

100

String

New SLDU Name

NEW_CODE

3

String

New SLDU Code

RELTYPE1

2

String

Relationship Type 1

RELTYPE2

2

String

Relationship Type 2

RELTYPE3

2

String

Relationship Type 3

RELTYPE4

2

String

Relationship Type 4

RELTYPE5

2

String

Relationship Type 5

REL_ENT1

8

String

Relationship Entity 1

REL_ENT2

8

String

Relationship Entity 2

REL_ENT3

8

String

Relationship Entity 3

REL_ENT4

8

String

Relationship Entity 4

REL_ENT5

8

String

Relationship Entity 5

RELATE

120

String

Relationship Description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

4

String

Legislative Session Year

LSY
NAME

100

String

Name

VINTAGE

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

State Legislative Districts (Lower/Senate)
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP*

3

String

FIPS County Code

SLDLST

3

String

SLD Lower Chamber Code

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

PARTFLG*

1

String

Part Flag Indicator

CHNG_TYPE

2

String

Type of area update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

NEW_NAME

100

String

New SLDL Name

NEW_CODE

3

String

New SLDL Code

RELTYPE1

2

String

Relationship Type 1

RELTYPE2

2

String

Relationship Type 2

RELTYPE3

2

String

Relationship Type 3

RELTYPE4

2

String

Relationship Type 4

RELTYPE5

2

String

Relationship Type 5

REL_ENT1

8

String

Relationship Entity 1

NAMELSAD

DESCRIPTION

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-8

ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

REL_ENT2

8

String

Relationship Entity 2

REL_ENT3

8

String

Relationship Entity 3

REL_ENT4

8

String

Relationship Entity 4

REL_ENT5

8

String

Relationship Entity 5

RELATE

120

String

Relationship Description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

4

String

Legislative Session Year

100

String

Name

VINTAGE

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

LSY
NAME

DESCRIPTION

Urban Growth Areas
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

UGACE

5

String

Urban Growth Area Code

UGATYP

1

String

Urban Growth Area Type

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

PARTFLG

1

String

Part Flag Indicator

CHNG_TYPE

1

String

Type of Area Update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

AREA

10

Double

Acreage of Update

RELATE

120

String

Relationship Description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

VINTAGE

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

100

String

Name

NAMELSAD

NAME

DESCRIPTION

Census Block Groups
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

DESCRIPTION

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

TRACTCE

6

String

Census Tract Code

BLKGRPCE

1

String

BLKGRPID

12

String

CHNG_TYPE

2

String

Block Group Code
FIPS State Code, FIPS County Code, Census
Tract Code, Block Group Code
Type of Area Update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

BGTYP

1

String

Block Group Characteristic Flag

RELATE

120

String

Relationship Description

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-9

ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

JUSTIFY

150

Char

VINTAGE

2

String

DESCRIPTION
Justification
Vintage updated with returned data

Census Blocks – Current
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

DESCRIPTION

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

STATEFP10

2

String

FIPS 2010 State Code

COUNTYFP10

3

String

FIPS 2010 County Code

TRACTCE10

6

String

Census Tract Code

BLOCKCE

4

String

Tabulation Block Number

SUFFIX1CE

2

String

Census Block Suffix 1

SUFFIX2CE

2

String

BLOCKID

19

String

Census Block Suffix 2
FIPS State Code, FIPS County Code, Census
Tract Code, Tabulation Block Number, Census
Block Suffix 1, Census Block Suffix 2

Census Blocks – Census 2010
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

DESCRIPTION

STATEFP10

2

String

FIPS 2010 State Code

COUNTYFP10

3

String

FIPS 2010 County Code

TRACTCE10

6

String

Census Tract Code

BLOCKCE

4

String

Tabulation Block Number

BLOCKID10

15

String

FIPS State Code, FIPS County Code, Census
Tract Code, Tabulation Block Number

PARTFLG

1

String

Part Flag Indicator

HOUSING10

9

Integer

2010 Housing

POP10

9

Integer

Census 2010 population count

Census Tracts
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

TRACTCE

6

String

Census Tract Code

NAME

100

String

TRACTID

11

String

CHNG_TYPE

2

String

Name
FIPS State Code, FIPS County Code, Census
Tract Code
Type of area update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

TRACTTYP

1

String

Tract Characteristic Flag

120

String

Relationship Description

RELATE

DESCRIPTION

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-10

ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

150

Char

Justification

TRACTLABEL

7

String

Tract number used for LUCA geocoding

VINTAGE

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

JUSTIFY

DESCRIPTION

Census Designated Places
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP*

3

String

FIPS County Code

PLACEFP

5

String

FIPS 55 Place Code

PLACENS

5

String

ANSI feature code for the place

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

CLASSFP

2

String

FIPS 55 Class Code describing an entity

PARTFLG

1

String

Part Flag Indicator

CHNG_TYPE

1

String

Type of Area Update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

RELATE

120

String

Relationship Description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

NAME

100

String

Name

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

NAMELSAD

VINTAGE

DESCRIPTION

Consolidated City
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

CONCITYFP

5

String

FIPS 55 Place Code

CONCITYCE

4

String

Census Consolidated City Code

NAMELSAD

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

PLACENS

8

String

ANSI feature code for the place

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

CLASSFP

2

String

FIPS 55 Class Code describing an entity

CHNG_TYPE

1

String

Type of Area Update

120

String

Supporting Documentation

FORM_ID

4

String

(GUPS and Web BAS only)

AREA

10

Double

Acreage of Update

RELATE

120

String

Relationship Description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

DOCU

DESCRIPTION

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-11

County and Equivalent Areas
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

COUNTYNS

8

String

NAMELSAD

100

String

FIPS County Code
ANSI Feature Code for the County or
Equivalent Feature
Name with translated LSAD code

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description code

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

CLASSFP

2

String

FIPS 55 Class Code describing an entity

CHNG_TYPE

1

String

Type of area update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

120

String

Supporting Documentation

FORM_ID

4

String

(GUPS / Web BAS only)

AREA

10

Double

Acreage of Area Update

RELATE

120

String

Relationship description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

NAME

100

String

Name

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

DOCU

VINTAGE

DESCRIPTION

County Subdivisions – Legal (MCD)
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

COUSUBFP

5

String

FIPS County Subdivision Code

NAMELSAD

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

COUSUBNS

8

String

ANSI feature code for the MCDs

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

CLASSFP

2

String

FIPS 55 Class Code describing an entity

CHNG_TYPE

1

String

Type of Area Update

EFF_DATE

DESCRIPTION

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

120

String

Supporting Documentation

FORM_ID

4

String

(GUPS and Web BAS only)

AREA

10

Double

Acreage of Update

RELATE

120

String

Relationship Description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

NAME

100

String

Name

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

DOCU

VINTAGE

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-12

County Subdivisions –Statistical (CCD)
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

COUSUBFP

5

String

FIPS County Subdivision Code

NAMELSAD

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

COUSUBNS

8

String

ANSI feature code for the MCDs

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

CLASSFP

2

String

FIPS 55 Class Code describing an entity

CHNG_TYPE

1

String

Type of Area Update

RELATE

120

String

Relationship Description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

NAME

100

String

Name

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

VINTAGE

DESCRIPTION

Incorporated Place
LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

ATTRIBUTE FIELD

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP*

3

String

FIPS County Code

PLACEFP

5

String

FIPS 55 Place Code

100

String

Name with translated LSAD

PLACENS

8

String

ANSI feature code for the place

LSAD

2

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

CLASSFP

2

String

FIPS 55 Class Code describing an entity

PARTFLG

1

String

Part Flag Indicator

CHNG_TYPE

1

String

Type of Area Update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

120

String

Supporting Documentation

4

String

(GUPS and Web BAS only)

AREA

10

Double

Acreage of Update

RELATE

120

String

Relationship Description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

NAME

100

String

Name

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

NAMELSAD

DOCU
FORM_ID

VINTAGE

DESCRIPTION

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-13

States and Equivalent Areas
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

STATEUSPS

3

String

USPS State Abbreviation

NAME

10

Integer

Name

5

String

Legal/Statistical Area Description

120

String

ANSI feature code for the state

LSAD
STATENS

DESCRIPTION

Subbarrios
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

COUSUBFP

5

String

FIPS County Subdivision Code

SUBMCDFP

5

String

FIPS Sub-minor Civil Division Code

NAMELSAD

100

String

SUBMCDNS

8

String

LSAD

2

String

Name with translated LSAD
ANSI feature code for the sub-minor civil
division
Legal/Statistical Area Description

CHNG_TYPE

1

String

Type of Area Update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

AREA

10

Double

Acreage of Update

RELATE

120

String

Relationship Description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

FORM_ID

4

String

(GUPS and Web BAS only)

100

String

Name

VINTAGE

2

String

Vintage updated with returned data

FUNCSTAT

1

String

Functional Status

NAME

DESCRIPTION

Edges (All Lines)
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

State FIPS Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

County FIPS Code

TLID

10

Integer

Permanent Edge ID

TFIDL

10

Integer

Permanent Face ID (Left)

TFIDR

10

Integer

Permanent Face ID (Right)

MTFCC

5

String

FIDELITY

1

String

120

String

MAF/TIGER Feature Class Code
Indication to a respondent when their entity
boundary has changed through spatial
enhancement
Prefix qualifier code, prefix direction code,
prefix type code, base name, suffix type code,
suffix qualifier code

FULLNAME

DESCRIPTION

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-14

ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

DESCRIPTION

SMID

22

String

Spatial Tmeta ID

BBSPFLG

1

String

2010 block boundary suggestion

CBBFLG

1

String

BBSP_2020

1

String

CHNG_TYPE

2

String

Planned 2020 block boundary
BBSP Participant suggested 2020 Census
block boundary
Type of linear update

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

LTOADD

10

String

Left To Address

RTOADD

10

String

Right To Address

LFROMADD

10

String

Left From Address

RFROMADD

10

String

Right From Address

ZIPL

5

String

Left Zip Code

ZIPR

5

String

Right Zip Code

Area Landmark
LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

ATTRIBUTE FIELD

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

MTFCC

5

String

FULLNAME

120

String

AREAID

10

Integer

MAF/TIGER Feature Class Code
Prefix direction code, prefix type code, base
name, suffix type code, suffix direction code
Landmark identification number

ANSICODE

8

String

ANSI code for area landmarks

CHNG_TYPE

1

String

Type of Area Landmark update

EFF_DATE

8

String

Effective Date or Vintage

RELATE

120

String

Relationship description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

3

String

Block Area Grouping

BAG

DESCRIPTION

Hydrography Area

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

ATTRIBUTE FIELD

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

ANSICODE

8

String

ANSI code for hydrography area

MTFCC

5

String

120

String

1

String

MAF/TIGER Feature Class Code
Prefix direction code, prefix type code, base
name, suffix type, suffix type code, suffix
direction code
Type of Area Update

HYDROID

10

String

Hydrography Identification Number

RELATE

120

String

Relationship description

JUSTIFY

150

Char

Justification

FULLNAME
CHNG_TYPE

DESCRIPTION

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-15

Point Landmarks
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

POINTID

10

Integer

Point Landmark Identification Number

ANSICODE

8

Char

Official Code for Federal Agency use

MTFCC

5

String

MAF/TIGER Feature Class Code

120

String

Prefix type code, base name, suffix type code

1

String

Type of Area Update

150

Char

Justification

FULLNAME
CHNG_TYPE
JUSTIFY

DESCRIPTION

Topological Faces – Geographic Entity Relationships
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

DESCRIPTION

TFID

20

Integer

Permanent Face ID

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

TRIBSUBCE

3

String

Census Tribal Subdivision

TTRACTCE

6

String

Tribal Census Tract Code

TBLKGRPCE

1

String

Tribal Census Block Group Code

AIANNHCE

4

String

COMPTYP

1

String

ANRCCE

5

String

Census AIANNH Code
Indicates if reservation (or equivalent) or
off-reservation trust land is present, or both
FIPS ANRC Code

SLDUST

3

String

SLD Upper Chamber Code

SLDLST

3

String

ELSD

5

String

SCSD

5

String

UNSD

5

String

CDFP

2

String

SLD Lower Chamber Code
Current ELSD Local Education Agency
(LEA) Code
Current SCSD Local Education Agency
(LEA) Code
Current UNSD Local Education Agency
(LEA) Code
Congressional District Code

TRACTCE

6

String

Census Tract Code

UACE

5

String

Census Urban Area Code

BLKGRPCE

1

String

Census Block Group Code

BLOCKCE

4

String

Tabulation Block Number

SUFFIX1CE

2

String

Census Block Suffix 1

SUFFIX2CE

2

String

Census Block Suffix 2

TAZCE

6

String

Traffic Analysis Zone Code

SUBMCDFP

5

String

FIPS 55 Sub-minor Civil Division Code

UGACE

5

String

Urban Growth Area Code

VTDST10

6

String

2010 Voting District Code

STATEFP10

2

String

FIPS 2010 State Code

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-16

ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

DESCRIPTION

COUNTYFP10

3

String

FIPS 2010 County Code

TRACTCE10

6

String

Census 2010 Tract Code

PLACEFP

5

String

FIPS 55 Place Code

COUSUBFP

5

String

FIPS 55 County Subdivision Code

CONCITYFP

5

String

FIPS 55 Place Code

LWFLG

1

String

Land/Water Flag

Topological Faces – Area Landmark Relationships
LENGTH

TYPE

TFID

ATTRIBUTE FIELD

20

Integer

Permanent Face ID

DESCRIPTION

AREAID

22

Integer

Object ID

Topological Faces – Hydrography Area Relationships
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

DESCRIPTION

TFID

20

Integer

Permanent Face ID

HYDROID

22

Integer

Object ID

Address Ranges
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

DESCRIPTION

TLID

22

Integer

TIGER Line ID

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

FROMHN

12

String

From House Number

TOHN

12

String

To House Number

SIDE

1

String

Side Indicator Flag

ZIP

5

String

5-digit ZIP Code

PLUS4

4

String

ZIP+4 Code

LFROMADD

10

String

Left From Address

LTOADD

10

String

Left To Address

RFROMADD

10

String

Right From Address

RTOADD

10

String

Right To Address

ZIPL

5

String

Left 5-digit ZIP Code

ZIPR

5

String

Right 5-digit ZIP Code

ZIP4L

4

String

Left ZIP+4 Code

ZIP4R

4

String

Right ZIP+4 Code

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-17

Linear Feature Names
ATTRIBUTE FIELD

LENGTH

TYPE

OID

22

Integer

Object ID

STATEFP

2

String

FIPS State Code

COUNTYFP

3

String

FIPS County Code

100

String

PREDIR

2

String

PRETYP

3

String

PREQUAL

2

String

SUFDIR

2

String

SUFTYP

3

String

SUFQUAL

2

String

MTFCC

5

String

Name
Prefix Direction code component of feature
name
Prefix Type code component of feature name
Prefix Qualifier code component of feature
name
Suffix Direction code component of feature
name
Suffix Type code component of feature name
Suffix Qualifier code component of feature
name
MAF/TIGER Feature Class Code

PAFLAG

1

String

Primary/Alternate flag

NAME

DESCRIPTION

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

D-18

Acronyms
ACRONYM

EXPLANATION

BAS

Boundary and Annexation Survey

BAG

Block Area Grouping

BBSP

Block Boundary Suggestion Project

CBBFLG

Census Block Boundary Flag

CRVRDO

Census Redistricting & Voting Rights Data Office

FIPS

Federal Information Processing Standard

GNIS

Geographic Names Information System

GUPS

Geographic Update Partnership Software
Master Address File/Topologically Integrated Geographic and Encoding
Reference (System)
Minor Civil Division

MAF/TIGER
MCD
MTFCC
OGC
QC
SWIM

MAF TIGER Feature Classification Code
Open Geospatial Consortium
Quality Control
Secure Web Incoming Module

URL

Uniform Resource Locator

VTD

Voting District Project

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

E-1

BBSP Participant Support
Direct all questions regarding the Block Boundary Suggestion Project, including
procedural and GUPS technical questions, to:
Census Redistricting and Voting Rights Data Office (301) 763-4039
Technical questions regarding file upload through the Secure Web Incoming Module
(SWIM) should be directed to: [email protected].

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

F-1

County Completion Tracking Sheet
BBSP Participants can use these sheets to track completed work and submissions to the
state (for designees) or the Census Bureau (RDP Liaison).

Validation
Check

QC

General Geog
Review

Block Boundary
Review

BAGs

BBSP
UPDATE

BBSP
Flags

Block Size
Review

2010 Feature
Extension Rev

Legal Boundary
Review
Pt Landmark
Review

County
Name

Area Landmark
Review

County
FIPS

Linear Feature
Review

GEOGRAPHIC DATA

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

SUBMISSION TRACKING

Date
Sent
to State
(Designee)

Date Sent To
Census
(RDP Liaison)

G-1

Shapefiles in a Different Coordinate
System
Shapefiles can be created in any coordinate system. Section 2.2 described the
projection system the Census Bureau uses for our partnership shapefiles. You may want
to bring in some of your local shapefiles for reference, and re-project them to match our
files, so they align properly with each other. There are lots of free conversion utilities out
there that can reproject shapefiles from one coordinate system/datum to another using
plug in utilities. After downloading and installing one of these programs, you may have to
enable the appropriate plug-in, usually by going to the Plug-ins menu and selecting the
GIS Tools listing on that menu to enable it. A new GIS Tools menu heading should
appear on the toolbar. From that GIS Tools menu, select Vector => Reproject a
Shapefile. Select the shapefile you want to re-project, and you will get a window similar
to the example below, from which you can select your target projection and datum:

Figure 11: Example

If the shapefile you are re-projecting has a .prj projection file defining its original
projection, most conversion utilities will read that automatically. If not, you will get
another window asking you to specify the original coordinate system of the shapefile.
You can then reproject the shapefile, and create a new shapefile with “_Reprojected”
appended to the original shapefile name.
Your conversion utility will create the .prj projection file for the newly-reprojected
shapefile, which many GIS programs can read automatically, and which is useful to keep
with the shapefile to keep track of its coordinate system. If you only want to create a .prj
file for a shapefile, select GIS Tools => Vector => Assign Projection to shapefile, and
follow the procedures to select the shapefile and its original projection; the conversion
utility will create a matching .prj file to go with it.

Block Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS Respondent Guide

H-1


File Typeapplication/pdf
File TitleBlock Boundary Suggestion Project User Supplied GIS User’s Guide
Author[email protected]
File Modified2017-03-09
File Created2016-12-21

© 2024 OMB.report | Privacy Policy