Definition
A comprehensive plan is an officially adopted document by a local government that outlines policies and guidelines for the future land development and use within its jurisdiction. Often reflective of the community’s vision for growth over a specified period, it covers various aspects such as housing, transportation, utilities, and recreation. These plans serve as crucial tools in urban planning, helping to manage growth, enhance the quality of life, and ensure sustainable development.
Examples
City of New York Comprehensive Plan: An extensive plan detailing the land use regulations, transportation systems, housing developments, and environmental policies specific to the entire city.
Small Town Comprehensive Plan: Guidelines for a small town that prioritize maintaining the town’s character while accommodating minimal growth, promoting local agriculture, and preserving green spaces.
County Road Network Plan: A specific section in a county’s comprehensive plan focusing on developing and upgrading the road network to meet future traffic demands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is a comprehensive plan important?
- A comprehensive plan helps guide the long-term growth and development of a community, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and development meets the community’s needs.
How often is a comprehensive plan updated?
- Comprehensive plans are typically updated every 5-10 years to reflect changes in community needs and priorities, technological advances, and new laws and regulations.
Who is involved in developing a comprehensive plan?
- The planning process usually involves local government officials, urban planners, community members, business leaders, and experts in various fields such as transportation, environment, and housing.
Can the public participate in the comprehensive planning process?
- Yes, public participation is often encouraged through community meetings, surveys, and public hearings, allowing residents to voice their opinions and contribute to the plan’s development.
What happens if a development proposal contradicts the comprehensive plan?
- If a development proposal contradicts the comprehensive plan, it may be required to go through a review process, and amendments to the plan may be considered to accommodate the development if it aligns with the community’s overall vision.
Related Terms
- Zoning Ordinance: A legal tool used to regulate land use and implement the policies set forth in the comprehensive plan.
- Master Plan: Often used interchangeably with comprehensive plan, though it may sometimes refer to a detailed plan for large-scale developments or specific projects like business districts.
- Urban Planning: The broader professional practice encompassing elements of law, architecture, and social policy aimed at creating sustainable and functional cities and communities.
- Land Use Planning: Focuses specifically on the management and regulation of land in urban, suburban, and rural areas.
Online Resources
- American Planning Association (APA): Professional organization that provides resources, publications, and events on planning-related topics.
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Smart Growth: Offers information and resources promoting sustainable land use and smart growth strategies.
- National League of Cities: Source for case studies, policy tools, and other useful materials for local government planning and development.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Urban Land Use Planning” by Philip R. Berke, Daniel R. Godschalk, Edward J. Kaiser, David A. Rodriguez
- “The Urban and Regional Planning Reader” edited by Eugenie L. Birch
- “Planning Local Economic Development: Theory and Practice” by Nancey Green Leigh and Edward J. Blakely
- “Site Planning” by Kevin Lynch and Gary Hack
Fundamentals of Comprehensive Planning: Urban Planning Basics Quiz
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