The Near tool generates output values beyond the search radius in ArcGIS Pro

Description

In ArcGIS Pro, the Near tool calculates the distance between features of different layers or feature classes on a map. Sometimes, the Near tool generates output values beyond the search radius of the tool.

Cause

The tool's search radius unit does not match the feature layer’s coordinate system linear unit. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: Usage for more information regarding the linear units used in the NEAR_DIST field of the Near tool.

Solution or Workaround

Use the Calculate Field tool to convert the output values to the desired linear unit for the NEAR_DIST field.

Note:
In this article, the NEAR_DIST field values are in meters and are divided by the approximate value of 1609 to convert the values to miles. Use the appropriate formula to convert the values to a different linear unit in the Calculate Field tool.

1. In ArcGIS Pro, right-click the feature layer in the Contents pane and select Attribute Table from the drop-down menu.
2. In the attribute table, right-click the NEAR_DIST field header and select Calculate Field from the drop-down menu.
3. In the Calculate Field pane, double-click NEAR_DIST from the Fields list to add the NEAR_DIST field to the Expression box.
4. Click the divide operator to add the operator to the Expression box.
5. Type 1609 into the Expression box.

6. Click OK.

The image below shows the NEAR_DIST field values displayed in miles and within the search radius of the Near tool in ArcGIS Pro.