WHAT IS REGIONAL & COMMUNITY PLANNING?

There are many different niches a planner may pursue, including transportation, land zoning, and community development. The primary role of a planner is working with the public to identify the goals of a community and assisting stakeholders in accomplishing those goals.

Planners...

• understand how cities function.
• synthesize data and identify trends.
• apply ethical reasoning to social and environmental impacts.
• utilize design and geographic information systems software.
• work with the public.
• solve problems with technical competence, creativity, and practicality.
• envision alternative futures.

Planners design places using a range of tools including physical plans and policies. Planners work at various scales, from regional to neighborhood, improving current conditions and envisioning the future. Transportation networks, land use, and urban reviatlization are some of the ways planners design communities and regions.

A planner's typical day includes studying proposed projects, developing plans, leading public workshops, and presenting to city leaders. If they work in a public agency, they write reports and manage the work of consultants. Those working for a consulting firm also write reports and create plans.

Many planners choose to work for government municipalities to influence policies and regulations for communities. Planners also have opportunities to work in the private sector as consultants. Nevertheless, no matter where planners work, they assist in making big decisions that guide how cities and communities will grow in the future.

Planners always work in coordination with other professionals, residents, businesses, and local officials to plan and implement policies and programs that improve the quality of life for those who live, work, and play within the community.