Frequently asked question
The Shape_Length field for a geodatabase feature class is generated automatically and managed by ArcGIS. Therefore, the field cannot be edited manually. As a workaround, create a new field, and use the Calculate Geometry tool to populate the new field with the Shape_Length field values in the desired unit of measurement. Complete the steps below to do so:
Note: To determine the unit of measurement of the Shape_Length field in ArcGIS Pro, right-click the feature class in the Contents pane, and click Properties. In the Layer Properties: <feature_class> window, click Source, scroll to the Spatial Reference section, and identify the Linear Unit.
The following attribute table displays the new field with the populated Shape_Length field values in Feet (United States).
Note: Optionally, it is possible to project the layer in the coordinate system that uses a desired linear unit of measurement using the Project tool. For example, if the layer's Projected Coordinate System is NAD 1983 HARN (Meters), use the Project tool to specify the Output Coordinate System to NAD 1983 HARN (US Feet). Ensure the Map Frame is in the same coordinate system as the layer. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: Specify the coordinate systems of maps and scenes for more information. If the Shape_Length field is in angular unit of measurement, use the Project tool to project the layer in a coordinate system that uses linear unit of measurement. Refer to FAQ: What is the unit of measurement used by the Shape_Length field in attribute tables? for more information on the coordinate systems that use angular or linear unit of measurement.
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