New Workbook Offers Municipalities a Step-by-Step Guide to Community Plans That Work

Planning 1-2-3 provides expert advice on the critical elements of a comprehensive plan, including housing, transportation, economic development, and open space preservation

September 6, 2006

(Batavia, Ill.) … Faced with growth and development challenges, communities across Illinois like Batavia are asking big questions about their futures. They’re deciding what types of homes they want to create and preserve, how to attract new employers while ensuring residents have transportation options for their commutes, and where to focus new development so that invaluable natural areas remain intact. To help communities realize a vision through the comprehensive planning process, the Campaign for Sensible Growth, Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, and Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC) will introduce an important and unique new tool―the Planning 1-2-3 guidebook―at an event featuring an interactive planning game on Wednesday, Sept. 20, at the Batavia Municipal Center, in Batavia.

Some communities can afford to hire staff planners and consultants to draft first-rate comprehensive plans. Others lack the means to pay for such expertise, putting them at a competitive disadvantage with their neighbors. Planning 1-2-3 helps level the playing field by offering a step-by-step, how-to guide for comprehensive planning that addresses housing, economic development, transportation, and protection of natural resources.

The Sept. 20 event is free of charge, but registration is required due to space limitations. While the event will be geared toward municipal officials and community leaders, the public is welcome and may register by visiting MPC’s Web calendar, or by calling Pam Lee at 312.863.6011. Members of the media are encouraged to attend to learn how quality comprehensive planning can ensure equal access and opportunity for residents of all communities.

NOTE: Similar events are planned for Sept. 19 in Des Plaines and Sept. 21 in Oak Forest. Please visit MPC's Web calendar for details.

What:
Interactive workshop to release the newly published Planning 1-2-3, a 79-page guide to comprehensive community planning.

When:
Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2006
1 to 3 p.m.

Where:
Batavia Municipal Center
100 N. Island Ave., Batavia, Ill.

For more information, visit the Campaign for Sensible Growth Web site, or contact Mandy Burrell, MPC communications associate, at 312.863.6018 or mburrell@metroplanning.org.