 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| back | fwd |
Abstract
Standards for Defining Metropolitan and Micropolitan Statistical Areas
Track: Census
Author(s): Trudy A. Suchan
The Metropolitan Area program has provided standard statistical area definitions at the metropolitan level for 50 years. The general concept of a Metropolitan Area has remained essentially the same since these areas
were first defined before the 1950 census: that is, an area containing a significant population nucleus and adjacent communities that have a high
degree of integration with that nucleus. The purpose of metropolitan areas also is unchanged from when they were first defined: the classification provides a nationally consistent set of definitions for collecting, tabulating, and publishing Federal statistics for geographic areas. The metropolitan area standards are reviewed and, if warranted, revised in the
years preceding each decennial census to ensure their continued usefulness and relevance. Prior to Census 2000, the Office of Management and Budget called for an especially thorough and comprehensive review of the Metropolitan Area concept and standards. In this presentation, I will provide an overview of the final Standards for Defining Metropolitan and Micropolitan Statistical Areas. In addition, I will discuss the various conceptual and operational issues raised and addressed during the review.
Trudy A. Suchan
U.S. Census Bureau
FB3, RM 2324
Washington, DC 20233-8800
USA
Phone: 301-457-2419
E-mail: trudy.a.suchan@census.gov