Ohio University Makes Appalachian Ohio Census Data Available on the Web

Contact: Sara Boyd, (740) 593- 9798

ATHENS, Ohio (May 17, 2001) -- A new online resource gives Internet users simple, straightforward access to Appalachian Ohio 2000 Census data.

Designed by the Data Center at Ohio University's Institute for Local Government Administration and Rural Development (ILGARD), the Web site is unique because it provides current information as well as 1990 Census information, allowing users to see how population is growing or declining. It also allows users to compare data with other Appalachian counties.

"The sheer volume of Census data can make it difficult to find region-specific information quickly and easily," said Sara Lichtin Boyd, senior research assistant at ILGARD. To solve this problem, Boyd's team created a user-friendly interface that prompts users to select a county from a map or a list. Users can then download the requested information. Additional information such as 1990 Census figures and links to other Census 2000 websites are also provided.

ILGARD will also provide original Census Data reports upon request, Boyd said.

ILGARD will make new census information available via the Web site at www.ilgard.ohiou.edu/data/ as the U.S. Census Bureau compiles and releases it. The Census Bureau's first release contained information regarding population growth, age, race and Hispanic origin, and is organized by county, township and village. Their second release, slated for September, will contain population information by gender, age, race, household relationship, type of household, housing occupancy and housing tenure.

Data is much in demand, according to Boyd. "Population decides who receives funding. It affects commerce, employment, industry, schools, government, you name it."

For instance, Ohio will lose a U.S. congressional seat as a result of the 2000 census.

ILGARD has been making knowledge work for Ohio's communities for the past 20 years. Using applied research and technical assistance, ILGARD aims to improve performance and efficiency of local governments; examine public policy issues; provide information and technology services to increase regional competitiveness; and involve Ohio University students in vital public service projects. ILGARD is part of the Voinovich Center for Leadership and Public Affairs at Ohio University