Introduction
The introduction introduces the subject matter and form of the book. It includes a glossary of terms used in the book. The chapter also includes a very brief historical perspective on community planning.
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Chapter 1 | Some Overarching Issues: Sustainability, Sprawl, and Human Health
This chapter introduces these subjects and places them in the context of modern planning practice; extensive references in the chapter lead to more information for those who want to explore these topics further.
Chapter 2 | Introduction to Planning
This chapter provides a brief introduction to planning in general and to the comprehensive plan. It describes the process typically used in creating a comprehensive plan and the challenges of creating a cohesive plan in a democratic and participatory society.
Chapter 3 | Introduction to the Comprehensive Plan
This chapter introduces the concept of the comprehensive plan. It provides a brief history of comprehensive planning. It outlines the elements of a comprehensive plan and it explains its three essential characteristics.
Chapter 4 | Analysis of Existing Conditions
In most community plans, a variety of social, economic and physical characteristics of a community provide the context from which a new plan must start. This chapter explains how planners inventory and evaluate existing conditions as a starting point for a plan.
Chapter 5 | Projecting Possible Futures for the Community
In planning, it is important to focus on what can be. This chapter deals with methods of determining what is feasible as part of a comprehensive planning process.
Chapter 6 | Involving Citizens in Making a Plan
People who live, work, and/or own property in a community should help to make the comprehensive plan for that community. This chapter discusses techniques for undertaking the complex process of involving citizens effectively in making a master plan or comprehensive plan.
Chapter 7 | Planning for Future Land Use
Planning for the future use of land is only one element of a typical comprehensive plan, but it is often the most visible and the most controversial element. This chapter discusses land-use planning techniques and challenges.
Chapter 8 | Planning for Public Facilities Such as Parks, Roads and Utilities
This chapter introduces the substantive context for planning for and designing streets and roads; bicycle and pedestrian facilities; sewer and water systems, parks, open space and green infrastructure; schools; fire stations and other public facilities.
Chapter 9 | Putting it All Together
Chapter 9 summarizes what should be included in the adopted comprehensive plan. The chapter discusses alternative formats for a plan and also describes the typical plan adoption process.