Planning Story of the Day
“As planners, we are routinely asked to facilitate neighborhood meetings. Development proposals are presented to neighboring property owners to inform and to identify potential compatibility concerns. We are particularly adept at active listening, and creative problem-solving whenever we can. On one occasion, at particularly well-attended neighborhood meeting for a housing development, a group of Native Americans attended. They were dressed in full Native American Headdress! Their passion for their earth, their ancestors, their culture was breathtaking – and very effective. As planners, we are trained to research potential impacts or influences for the projects we represent. Every project takes on a life of its own, and no two projects are the same. This is what makes community planning so exciting. In this case, the meeting led to researching the historic and cultural resources in the area (something not done routinely). We found that there were, in fact, artifacts at the site. We worked with the Colorado Historic Society to make sure the resources were carefully preserved before the plans were eventually approved and construction could begin.” — Deanne Frederickson, RLA, Business Development Manager and former Senior Planner
Famous Planners – John Nash – Planner of Regency London and Georges-Eugene, Baron Haussman – Planner of Paris
John Nash was a British architect during the regency period of England who is responsible for many of the iconic architecture styles seen in London today. He designed a majority of the layout of London at the beginning of the 18th century. Under the patronage of George IV, he designed many of Britain’s most famous buildings including the Royal Pavilion and Buckingham Palace.
Georges-Eugene, Baron Haussman was an urban planner who is largely responsible for the modern view of Paris. Under Emperor Napoleon III, in the 19th century, he transformed medieval Paris into what we think of today. He introduced the broad boulevards and grid-like mapping completely replacing the old medieval quarters. It was during this time that the classic white townhouse blocks with the iconic sloping roofs began to take over. He introduced parks and squares as well as new sewer and gas lines modernizing Paris as if overnight.
What Makes Community Planning Important?
Wikipedia has a fascinating article on the history of urban planning. This article delineates the history of urban planning, a technical and political process concerned with the use of land and design of the urban environment, including air, water, and the infrastructure passing into and out of urban areas such as transportation and distribution networks. The history of urban planning runs parallel to the history of the city, as planning is in evidence at some of the earliest known urban sites. From the pre-classical and classical eras to the Greco-Roman eras and to the new urbanism and sustainable development, this enthralling article walks you through the historic journey behind community planning that forms what we have today. Be sure to check it out. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_urban_planning
This week we celebrate our community planners and reflect upon their experience as planners through our “Survey the Planners.” Check out what our planners had to say each day this week for their responses.
- What do you feel are the top two challenges you face as a community planner?
“Most people don’t really know what planners do, and many feel like planners restrict landowners’ rights.” — Julie Esterl, Associate Planner
“The main challenge in planning is that everyone has a different idea about what the “right” plan is. At any point, your client, boss, property owner, nearby residents, public officials, or stakeholders may have different opinions which can get very contentious. A good planner knows how to educate and communicate with these different agencies and come to an agreeable solution.” — Andrew Baker, Associate Planner
“Community involvement and planning for smart growth.” — Melanie Nieske, Planning Technician
“When the economy and land development are doing well, planners are on the frontline of the backlash against growth. The ideal planning solution is almost never achieved – be prepared to compromise.” — Ben Thurston, AICP, Senior Planner
“Dealing with the public and elected officials.” — Jessie Stonberg, Associate Planner
“Facing the NIMBYs” – the ‘Not In My Back Yard’ mentality perspective.” — Vince Harris, AICP, Director of Planning
“1) Resistance to change and NIMBYism. 2) Climate change and shifting population migration patterns.” — Ethan Watel, AICP, Planning Manager
