Physical master planning can support government economic development planning and guide infrastructure appropriations. Supported with economic analysis, this can determine most effective return on investment (ROI), stimulate private investment and development and introduce Public Private Partnerships (PPP). Collaborative planning will lower opportunity costs and speed enterprises to market by paving the way with an infrastructure framework and expedited development process.
The Urban Planning Constellation provides physical planning services for cities, towns, campuses and building complexes that are socially, economically and environmentally sustainable. We utilize the best practices in sustainable urbanism, mixed land use and appropriate infrastructure technology for human habitat in which to live, work, learn and play.
With the creative art of “placemaking” the economic investment value of a location is elevated by establishing a synergy of collocated uses, where people want to reside. The story of a place can contribute to the interest in investment and relocation, especially as applied to resort communities.
As a secondary benefit, we have found that the linear planning process is also a catalyst to capacity and institution building that is necessary for building consensus, setting policy and supporting implementation. Socio-economic analysis can define the economic benefit of development and additionally provide options for municipal financing and public private partnerships.
The Urban Planning Constellation is a consortium of US firms with extensive experience together and a wide diversity of projects, offering a wide spectrum of services. We perform urban planning, architectural and urban design. Then we are a network of specialists to assist in such things as engineering and economics. Our services also include defining goals and vision, site selection and analysis, feasibility studies, development design guidelines, zoning, entitlements, governing jurisdiction approvals, marketing graphics, 3D modeling, printing, performance requirements, sustainability certification, programming, area analysis, project budgeting, cost analysis, constructability, systems analysis, specifications, material selection, interior design, fixture furnishing and equipment selection, solicitation of offers, writing contracts, contractor selection, bidding, construction observation, payment application and shop drawing review.
We have the privilege of making peoples dreams a reality with all of the technical skills needed in between.
STEPS may include:
Vision, Goals, Objectives Program & Scope Definition
Leadership Vision, Stakeholder work sessions, Participatory process
Socioeconomic Analysis
Existing Economic Drivers, Projected Growth Rates, Potential Industry/Commerce Feasibility,
Cultural/ Historic/ Demographic Context, Story of Place
Mapping & Physical Analysis
Existing natural conditions: environmental, topography, hydrology, geology, vegetation, wildlife, climate
Existing infrastructure roads utilities, water, power, sewer, land-use cadastral, buildings, etc.
Satellite & Aerial Imagery, GIS
Opportunities & Constraints Exploration
Population Absorption, Capacity, Limitations, Areas for Development, Site selections,
Preliminary Concepts
Model Program of Requirements
Population Model & Density, Land Use Demand by Occupancy Type
Roadway desire lines capacities, Infrastructure capacities
Conceptual Master Plan Design
Diagrams relationships, Alternates, Land Use Plan, Mixed Used Form Based Zoning,
Transportation Framework, Green Framework
Infra Strategies, Water ,Wastewater, Energy
Design Guidelines
Smart Code (form based), Sustainable principles & practices,
Architectural Character & Streetscape, Engineering requirements
Phasing Plans
Identify Early Pilot Projects, Expropriation Policy, Growth over time,
Municipal Financing Plan
Schematic Design for Pilot Areas
Urban design, Architecture Massing Character, Landscape Architecture,
Definition of Streets Pedestrian ways, Neighborhoods, Urban Centers,
Schematic Utility Plans
Infrastructure Engineering
Environmentally based systems, Appropriate & renewable technology,
Increased capacity Expansion Strategy, Life Cycle Cost & Energy efficiency,
Road & Utility routing & sizing
Comprehensive Master Plan
Integrated “fine grain” land use, Integrated transportation, utility, phasing plans,
Legal zoning code compliance documents, Delineation of Public Realm
Implementation Strategy
Institution Capacity Building, Construction Design Documentation, Project Costs,
Municipal Financing Method, Construction Contracting Methods
EXPERIENCE:
We have been honored to be involved in assisting Rwanda’s vision to becoming a continental hub of economic activity in its recovery from a horrific past. The team worked with President Kagame in providing a physical plan to support his vision for the future of the nation. Good governance was the foundation for reconciliation to set a common direction with a bright future, a safe haven for investment and a better living standard for the people. The multiple award-winning Master Plan included: a land use plan for the growth of Kigali from 1 million to 3 million people over a period of 25 years, a new city center with environmentally sustainable infrastructure, urban renewal of informal housing settlements, sub-area plans for four “hotspots” ripe for development, an airport and health sciences center.
Currently being planned is the new city of Konza Technopolis in Kenya, now under construction, to meet Kenya’s mission to create “a sustainable world class technology hub and major economic driver for the nation, with a vibrant mix of businesses, workers, merchants and urban amenities”. Public spaces with parks, plazas and a green transit corridor, will create a platform for social interaction, economic development, innovation and the exchange of ideas. Livable walkable neighborhoods will provide relief from Nairobi’s traffic jambs and air pollution 60km away. The first phase will accommodate 30,000 people, who can enjoy the outdoor environment with parks, urban agriculture, schools and community centers that are safe for children.
Master planning can assist in addressing large global problems, by reducing carbon emissions, climate change and solving the current urban crisis with job opportunities, affordable housing and implementing sustainable principles in this rapidly urbanizing world.