What Is City Planning?

The term “city planning” can be applied to several things: the general idea of planning a populated area; the academic study of planning; the official office in a city that is part of the government structure. As a professional, a city planner would focus on the physical elements of developing and growing a city. But generally speaking this design and placement of physical structures is accompanied by environmental and social considerations. The goals in city planning are most often long term.

Those who follow a city-planning career path might work for the municipal government of the city or might find work in a design company that specializes in populated areas and commercial areas.

Some city planners are important contributors to federal, state and local housing agencies. Others might establish a private firm that is hired by cities, agencies and developers. This last category makes up the largest group of city planners, men and women who consult with and advise elected officials, development companies, contractors and social-service groups.

One of the key elements of city planning is controlling growth, which could include limiting certain types of growth, restricting some types of buildings and businesses to specific areas or encouraging change in the look and feel of an urban area. Planners often expend a great deal of effort in helping local officials and developers avoid future problems.

However, they can also be part of a process that addresses a current problem with an eye toward avoiding the same issues in the future.
In addition to addressing growth issues, a city planner might seek to find a balance between residential needs and commercial needs in a metropolitan setting. Plans could take into account ready resources and bring in additional resources to solve community problems and make necessary changes. City planning may also involve incorporating historical buildings and locations into future growth.

The planning process may stretch over several months, with some goals established for several years in the future. Planners might be involved in gathering statistics and other necessary information that will be included in the written plan. This material forms the “map” or set of directions that the planner, government officials and developers will follow during the construction phase of a development project.

This information might refer to such areas as transportation, utilities, public buildings, stores and offices, location of lighting, parks etc. It may be presented to elected city officials, representatives of the business community and other organizations in written form as well as in speeches and graphic presentations.

It is important that city planning have a view that is sufficiently long term. Unplanned and unchecked growth can lead to traffic congestion, uncomfortable living conditions, not to mention little or no room for business growth. An all-inclusive city plan might include deciding how to best use open space while protecting the appearance and “flavor” of the city. One of the most important aspects of city planning is the efficient use of space for all the requirements of a particular community.

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