The U.S. Census Bureau will conduct field testing in 2006 for the 2010 Census in a portion of Travis County, Texas.

     The test site area cuts a north-south path through Travis County along the Interstate 35 corridor from Onion Creek to the border with Williamson County. It primarily includes portions of Austin, both east and west of I-35, but also takes in part of Pflugerville and unincorporated areas of Travis County.

     “This project is part of a multi-year testing and development process in preparation for the 2010 Census,” said Census Bureau Director Louis Kincannon. “It is designed to test new and improved methods, technology and procedures planned for use in the 2010 Census.”

     Travis County was selected as one of only two test sites by the Census Bureau. “The county is an ideal testing ground for the Census Bureau because it is a technology center with a rapidly growing and diverse population and a variety of housing,” said Cleve Allen, Local Census Office, Manager.

     Kincannon said the Census Bureau will study new methods for meeting the language needs of respondents who do not speak English. “In the Travis County site, we will evaluate using bilingual questionaires and enhanced language assistance programs,” he said.

     In the 2006 Census Test, field workers will enter data directly onto handheld computers, reducing data entry errors that can result when notes are recorded on paper. If implemented successfully in 2010, the use of handheld computers will increase efficiency and reduce the total cost of data collection.

     The Census Bureau also will be testing improvements to methods for counting people who reside in group quarters. These include college dormitories or residence halls, hospital wards and nursing homes, correctional institutions, juvenile detention centers, military quarters and group homes.

     In addition to studying new methods and technology in the 2006 Census Test, the Census Bureau will continue to uphold its high standard of protecting the confidentiality of all respondents. Every person with access to data is sworn by law to protect confidentiality. Violating the laws protecting confidentiality is a federal crime with serious penalties, including a prison sentence of up to five years and a $250,000 fine. Respondent information is protected and identities cannot be shared with any person or organization outside of the Census Bureau.

     County residents who would like to be considered for temporary census jobs in 2005 and 2006 should contact the Austin Local Census Office at (888) 814-6711.

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