Understanding  Urban Planning

Urban Planning is the process of designing and managing the physical, social, and economic aspects of urban areas to improve the quality of life for its inhabitants. It regards sustainable development, city design, transportation planning, land use policies, community engagement, and other related fields.

What are the objectives of Urban Planning?

The objectives of Urban Planning include:

• Promoting sustainability by minimizing environmental impacts and promoting equitable development.
• Creating better living conditions by providing affordable housing, public spaces, and efficient transportation.
• Enhancing economic competitiveness by supporting businesses and creating job opportunities.
• Ensuring social justice by reducing disparities in access to resources such as education and healthcare.

What is Sustainable Development?

Sustainable Development refers to a development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In Urban Planning, sustainable development aims to minimize environmental impacts and promote social equity.

What is City Design?

City Design deals with designing buildings, streetscapes, public spaces, and other physical features of urban areas. It considers factors such as accessibility, aesthetics, safety, and functionality.

What is Transportation Planning?

Transportation Planning involves designing transportation systems that are safe, efficient, affordable, and environmentally friendly. It includes planning for walking, cycling, public transit, and private vehicles.

What are Land Use Policies?

Land Use Policies refer to laws and regulations that govern how land can be used in urban areas. They aim to balance the needs of various stakeholders such as residents, businesses, and government agencies while promoting sustainable development.

What is Community Engagement?

Community Engagement refers to involving people who live or work in a particular area in decision-making processes related to urban planning. It helps ensure that their voices are heard and their needs are reflected in planning decisions.

References:

1. Beatley T., Newman P., 2013. Resilient Cities: Responding to Peak Oil and Climate Change. Washington, DC: Island Press.
2. Batty M., 2013. The New Science of Cities. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.
3. Calthorpe P., Fulton W., 2001. The Regional City: Planning for the End of Sprawl. Washington, DC: Island Press.
4. Ewing R., Bartholomew K., WInkelhake M., Walters J., Chen D., 2016. Growing Cooler: The Evidence on Urban Development and Climate Change. Chicago, IL: Urban Land Institute.
5. Norris F.H., Stevens S.P., Pfefferbaum B., Wyche K.F., Pfefferbaum R.L.. In press. Community Resilience as a Framework for Urban Planning and Policy Response in a Pandemic. Journal of the American Planning Association.