Determining the nearest feature using the Near tool

So far, you have seen how we can use buffers to show areas that are within a specified distance from features. This allows us to see if other features are within that area. We can also use those areas to perform additional analysis. However, these are all general measurements. They do not tell us which feature is the closest to another feature. How do we determine which feature is closest to another feature?

If you have an advanced license for ArcGIS Pro, this is pretty easy. The Near tool will determine the closest feature for you. Not only will it determine which feature is closest, but it also has options to calculate the distance, direction, coordinates, and more of the closest features. The Near tool works with points, lines, and polygons. You can also specify that it only searches for the closest feature within a specified distance. So, let’s put this tool into action.

In this recipe, you will continue to assist...