[spatial analysis]
A method of locating a feature (such as a node, junction, or geographic location) using its relative position along a line feature (such as a road, river, or pipeline) without explicit x,y coordinates. In linear referencing, location is given in terms of the relationships between known features and positions, or measurements, along the line feature. An example of a linear reference is saying "seven feet west of mile marker 234 on Route 52."