What system was developed to cover the U.S. with a flat grid network?

The State Plane Coordinates system was developed specifically to cover the U.S. with a flat grid network, offering a way to accurately represent locations on the Earth's surface within each state. This system divides the U.S. into different zones, where each zone uses a specific projection to minimize distortion for local surveying and mapping. By establishing a flat, two-dimensional representation, State Plane Coordinates provide precise measurements in feet or meters, allowing for detailed property descriptions and easier navigation for appraisals and surveying.

While geodetic systems and latitude/longitude provide a global framework for positioning, they do not create a flat representation tailored to local regions with minimal distortion. The Global Positioning System (GPS) uses satellite signals to provide real-time location data but does not utilize a flat grid format for mapping. Thus, the State Plane Coordinates system stands out as the correct answer for this question regarding a specifically developed flat grid network for the U.S.