Designing a neighborhood is a major undertaking. Whether starting from scratch or modifying an existing plan, hurdles will likely arise along the way. Fortunately, it’s possible to mitigate the most common issues by following a traditional city planning model. While unanticipated problems might still arise, tackling the following stages in the order they're listed can streamline the process considerably.

5 Stages of City Planning

1. Exploring 

During the initial exploratory phase, city planners scope out the area in question to determine rough borders for their design. They will also meet with leaders in the municipality to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding their vision for the future. 

2. Reviewing 

Once a rough perimeter has been determined, it will be reviewed for feasibility by completing tasks like land surveying and soil testing. At the end of the day, the planners must confirm that the land can support the proposed infrastructure.

3. Zoning

Zoning laws play a major role in city planning and ultimately determine which areas will be residential and which will be commercial. At this point, the developers will draft rough plans for the layout of the neighborhood. They will not proceed to the next stage until these plans have been approved by the city council. 

4. Designing 

During the design stage, the plans that were approved in the zoning stage will be finalized. Detailed blueprints will be drawn up for buildings and parks, and the contractors enlisted to bring them to life will start obtaining the necessary permits. 

5. Implementing 

A city planner’s job does not end once the design stage is over. At the end of the day, it’s up to the original planners to oversee construction and ensure everything proceeds as it should. At least a few issues will likely arise along the way, and it will be up to the planners to propose practical solutions. 

If your municipality needs help with any of the above stages, turn to Hart-Frederick Consultants PC. Based in Tiffin, IA, this consulting firm is proud to serve clients throughout Johnson County. Founded in 1996, they have decades of city planning experience, and because their team is comprised of licensed engineers, land surveyors, and certified inspectors, they can assist with virtually every stage of project development. Visit their website to explore all of the services they provide, or call (319) 545-7215 to discuss your city planning needs today.