PRESS RELEASES - APRIL 2009

April 6, 2009

U.S. Census Bureau to Canvass Arlington Neighborhoods

Who: United States Census Bureau

What: Canvassing Arlington neighborhoods to update the Census Bureau address lists

When: Monday, April 6 through Saturday, June 13

Where: All Arlington area neighborhoods

Why: To help ensure an accurate population count for the 2010 U.S. Census

About the Census:
The Census is a count of everyone living in the United States. It is conducted every 10 years and is mandated by the U.S. Constitution and required by federal law. Census data is used to distribute Congressional seats to states and make decisions on how to distribute federal funds to local, state and tribal governments.

Locally, the data helps planners address important neighborhood needs and know where to invest in public services such as transportation, economic development and health, according to Planning Manager Bridgett White. The goal is to increase the mail response rate for the questionnaire, which will be mailed in 2010 during February and March. In 2000, Arlington’s mail response rate was 68 percent, which was three percentage points higher than the national rate of 65 percent. The national goal for 2010 is 75 percent. Census Day is April 1, 2010.

About the Workers:
All U.S. Census workers will be identified by official badges, handheld devices and placards on the dashboards of vehicles. The workers will use maps and global positioning system technology to update addresses. In situations where addresses are not clearly visible, workers may visit private property to verify an address. Census workers will have informational flyers. When requested, they will present identification.

How to Get More Information:
Learn more about the U.S. Census at www.arlingtontx.gov and click on “2010 Census We’re Counting On You.” Information is also being provided in Spanish.

For media interviews and questions about neighborhood canvassing efforts in Arlington: Contact City of Arlington Planning Manager Bridgett White at 817-459-6660 or Bridgett.White@arlingtontx.gov.