NSRS MODERNIZATION

The National Geodetic Survey (NGS) is replacing the current national reference frames and datums with modernized versions, including new terrestrial reference frames, new geopotential datum and new state plane coordinate systems. This modernization is the most significant change to the national spatial reference system in a generation.

What’s Changing

The modernization replaces NAD 83, NAVD 88, and SPCS83 with new reference frames, a new geopotential vertical datum and a new coordinate system. For Texas surveyors, some important takeaways are:

  • Every coordinate in Texas is changing horizontally by approximately 3.5-4 feet and vertically by approximately 2.5-4 feet.

  • SPCS2022 expands Texas into 56 zones. One statewide zone, five complete coverage zones and 50 low distortion projection zones (LDP).

  • The U.S. Survey Foot is being phased out; SPCS2022 supports international feet only

why it matters

The new reference frames are time dependent, meaning positions can shift slightly over time due to natural forces like tectonic movement and subsidence. While in practice, surveyors will have very similar workflows, understanding the new changes is essential when working in the new systems.

Once adopted, Texas will have a third official state coordinate system. Getting the details right including, units, epochs, and reference frames, matters more than ever. Small oversights (like software defaulting to the wrong unit of measure) can introduce real errors into your work.

TSRC's Role

TSRC has played a central coordinating role in Texas's transition to the modernized NSRS. Working alongside TxDOT, TSPS, and NGS, TSRC helped facilitate the design of Texas's approved SPCS2022 coordinate zones.

Now TSRC works to facilitate a smooth transition for Texas ahead of its adoption decision by coordinating with NOAA, NGS, TWDB, TxDOT, TSPS, and others, and keeping Texas's surveying and geospatial community informed and prepared for what's ahead.

WHAT’s next

NGS has targeted 2027 for federal adoption of the modernized system. Texas's adoption is a separate decision and as the state's legislatively designated authority for coordinate systems, TSRC will determine when and how Texas formally adopts the new datums and SPCS2022, in coordination with the state's surveying and geospatial community. Once adopted, Texas's coordinate system will be listed on the Texas Coordinate Systems page.

explore further

Stay current on the national rollout, and test the new tools yourself:

  • NGS Beta Tools - Test the modernized reference frames and SPCS2022 zones directly through NGS's beta platform.

  • Track NGS Progress - Follow NGS's national milestones for the NSRS modernization rollout.

For Texas

For a deeper look at what's changing and what it means for your work, see TSRC's presentations and webinars. If you would like to schedule a webinar or presentation for your group or organization reach out to TSRC Director Amanda Jonas via the Contact TSRC page.