About the Third Avenue Institute

Methodology

At the Third Avenue Institute, our mission is to provide reliable, data-driven insights that reflect the opinions of New Yorkers. We use a rigorous and transparent methodology to ensure our findings are both representative and actionable. 

In all our work, we commit to abiding by the American Association for Public Opinion Research’s Code of Professional Ethics and Practices.

Choosing Topics to Research

We focus on the issues that matter most to New Yorkers, driven by a mix of current events and direct input from key stakeholders. Our team monitors news cycles to identify pressing urban policy topics, such as housing, transportation, and public space reforms. Additionally, we collaborate with elected officials, advocacy groups, and government agencies to prioritize research areas that align with public interest and policy debates.

Surveying New Yorkers

To gather public opinion, we use random sampling from the New York State voter file, ensuring a diverse cross-section of registered voters is invited to participate in our surveys. Email surveys are sent to carefully selected samples to maximize reach while maintaining statistical rigor. This approach ensures our surveys are inclusive and representative of NYC’s dynamic population.

Analyzing and Weighting Data

Once we collect survey responses, our analysts process and re-weight the data to match New York City’s demographics. By applying advanced statistical techniques, we correct for any sampling biases, ensuring the results reflect the true diversity of NYC.

Publishing Reports and Driving Engagement

After analysis, we produce clear, accessible reports to share our findings. These reports are made publicly available on our website and are shared directly with elected officials, advocacy groups, and the media. To ensure our insights are interpreted and used effectively, we engage actively with policymakers, community leaders, and journalists. This collaborative approach helps bridge the gap between public opinion and policy decisions. 

Commitment to Ethics and Transparency

We are committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in research. As followers of the American Association for Public Opinion Research’s best practices, we abide by their Code of Professional Ethics and Practices, ensuring transparency, accuracy, and respect for participants throughout our work.

We follow the best practices from the Transparency Initiative of the American Association for Public Opinion Research. We welcome requests for peer review of our research.

Our methodology combines precision, inclusivity, and ethical rigor, ensuring that the voices of New Yorkers play a central role in shaping the future of our city.