Community Planning

Advancing Tribal Climate and Transportation Goals

Rural & Tribal Assistance Pilot Program Grant Opportunity

The Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program (RTA), administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Build America Bureau, provides funding for early-stage activities such as feasibility studies, environmental review, preliminary engineering, and funding strategy development. It plays a crucial role in advancing Tribal climate and transportation goals.

While recent updates to the program have scaled back language around climate, sustainability, and environmental justice, tribal communities across the country may still find this program valuable for preparing transportation projects that could later qualify for larger federal funding opportunities.

Tribal Leadership in Infrastructure and Community Development

Tribal Nations across the U.S. have long demonstrated leadership in advancing infrastructure, mobility, and community development. From improving roadway safety and connectivity to planning for future growth and economic opportunity, tribal governments continue to lead efforts that strengthen both local communities and regional networks.

The RTA Program supports this leadership by funding early-stage planning activities that help tribal communities prepare for larger federal infrastructure investments. Even though the revised Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) no longer emphasizes climate or sustainability themes, the program remains a valuable tool for building capacity and positioning projects for long-term success.

Project Relevance and Eligible Activities

The RTA grant supports pre-development activities for transportation and infrastructure projects, including:

• Feasibility studies
• Project planning and design
• Environmental reviews
• Economic and cost-benefit analyses
• Revenue forecasting and funding strategies
• Legal and regulatory assessments
• Value-for-money (VFM) studies
• Public engagement and benefit evaluations

These funds help Tribes hire legal, technical, and financial advisors to prepare for larger federal infrastructure grants or financing.

Applicants may submit up to two separate project applications for consideration.

Tribal-Specific Benefits

• $20 million tribal set-aside
• No match required
• Funding available for hiring expert advisors
• Supports planning for future federal infrastructure grants
• Helps advance transportation projects that support pollution control and community health

Key Dates

• Application Portal Opens: September 8, 2025
• Deadline: October 8, 2025
• Award Ceiling: $2.5 million
• Awards Made on a First-Come, First-Served Basis

We encourage tribal governments to begin preparing early, as funding is limited and may be exhausted before the deadline. This is a powerful opportunity to build capacity, lay the groundwork for future infrastructure investments, and position your community for success in upcoming federal grant programs.

The Build America Bureau will host a webinar on August 26, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. ET to provide an overview of the amended RTA Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), including changes, eligibility, and application guidance.
Register here.

WSB is dedicated to helping your community not only navigate every stage of the infrastructure project journey, but also to secure the critical funding needed for your success. Our experienced team will work hand-in-hand with you to develop compelling grant applications, ensure you meet eligibility requirements, and position your project for maximum competitiveness—giving you the best possible chance to access limited federal dollars. From identifying funding sources to delivering effective project solutions, WSB is your trusted partner in turning opportunity into reality and driving meaningful progress for your community for years to come.

The Next 30 Years of Civil Engineering

Shaping the Future with Innovation, Insight, and Integrity

As WSB celebrates 30 years of innovation and excellence, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the transformative advancements in civil engineering and to look ahead to the exciting future of our industry. Over the past three decades, we’ve witnessed remarkable progress—from the widespread adoption of email and the internet to breakthroughs in materials science and the evolution of CAD software. These innovations have revolutionized how we design, collaborate, and deliver projects.

Future Predictions
The next 30 years promise even greater developments. As infrastructure demands grow, firms that embrace new ways of doing business by leveraging technology, optimizing project delivery methods, and investing in the next generation of engineers will be best positioned for success. Artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and robotics are beginning to transform key aspects of business across various industries. In civil engineering, the enhancements of these tools will accelerate project timelines, improve safety, and elevate creativity through seamless collaboration. Advancements in model-based design and construction management, as well as predictive analytics will continue to enable engineers to model, test, and refine infrastructure systems in a virtual environment before breaking ground, reducing risk and improving outcomes.

Technology as an Empowering Force
It’s important to emphasize that these developments will not be replacing engineers but empowering them. We look at these technologies as valuable assistants to our staff. With data becoming more accessible, engineers will have the insights needed to develop smarter, more sustainable infrastructure while maintaining the critical human expertise that drives innovation. Technology will continue to redefine safety, efficiency, and precision in an industry that once relied on hand-drawn plans and manual machine control. As these tools evolve, they will unlock new possibilities in civil engineering, shaping a future that is more connected and resilient. To stay at the forefront of these industry shifts, WSB is actively partnering with various leading technology companies to develop forward-thinking solutions for our clients. Our commitment to investing in continuous learning and technical training will continue to differentiate us as a leader in the industry.

WSB’s Commitment to the Future
Over the past 30 years, the industrialization of technology has propelled civil engineering forward. The next 30 will be defined by even greater advancements, ethical considerations, and the ability to adapt to new challenges. As we navigate the future of our industry, one thing is certain: WSB will lead our industry through this transformation.

How Cities Can Gather and Use Public Input in Decision Making

July 28, 2025

By Jennifer Edison, Senior Project Manager, WSB

Published by League of Minnesota Cities in the July-August month’s issue of the Minnesota Cities Magazine. How Cities Can Gather and Use Public Input in Decision Making – League of Minnesota Cities

In recent years, city councils across the state have been evolving their decision-making processes as they face the challenging task of balancing an increase in public expectations with the needs and priorities of the community. As cities grow, residents demand improved services, infrastructure, and transparency. Often times, competing interests make it essential for city councils to manage these expectations while making sure that community needs are met.

Public involvement can often feel like a double-edged sword, bringing both positive benefits and potential drawbacks. With the right tools, city councils can use public engagement to positively impact improvement projects while also addressing challenges that arise.

Clear communication and transparency

Effective communication of goals, priorities, and the reasoning behind decisions enhances understanding and engagement with city council actions. This could include regular updates through newsletters, social media, and public meetings. Keeping residents informed about ongoing projects, budget allocations, and upcoming initiatives helps them stay engaged and aware of the council’s activities and budget constraints. Additionally, explaining the reasons for prioritizing certain projects over others helps the public understand the complexities of project planning. This transparency fosters greater support for council decisions.

Inclusive engagement processes

Inclusive engagement guarantees diverse voices are heard and considered in the decision-making process. Consider the following options during the engagement process:

Town hall meetings. These meetings allow residents to voice their opinions, ask questions, and engage directly with council members, fostering a sense of community and allowing the council to be responsive to public concerns.

Surveys. Conducting surveys enables the council to gather community input to help inform decision making and prioritize projects that reflect community needs and preferences.

Focus groups. Organizing focus groups from different community segments provides insights into specific issues.

Performance metrics. Using performance metrics to evaluate the impact of decisions and policies. By tracking key indicators and outcomes, the council identifies successful initiatives
and assesses effectiveness.

Feedback platforms. Implementing platforms for residents to provide feedback, such as an online portal or public comment period, highlights areas for improvement and helps the
council address concerns.

Setting realistic expectations

Educating the public about the city council’s limitations and challenges helps set realistic community expectations. Public workshops allow for conversations about project complexities, helping residents understand constraints and tradeoffs. Detailed budget reports provide transparency, making residents aware of financial realities and the rationale behind decisions.

Prioritizing core needs

Identifying the core needs of the community prioritizes essential services and infrastructure. Capital improvement plans often highlight these core projects and outline long-term funding strategies. Developing these plans addresses both immediate needs and future growth, ensuring community sustainability. Regularly reviewing and updating these plans helps reflect changing circumstances and priorities.

Collaborative decision making

Collaborative decision making involves engaging various stakeholders to find common ground and gain support for projects that benefit the entire community. This approach is particularly important for projects that directly impact access or property adjacent to residential neighborhoods or business districts. One effective strategy is to develop a committee of residents, business owners, and community leaders to provide ongoing input and recommendations. Involving stakeholders in the planning process gives them a sense of ownership and helps educate the complexities of construction.

Continuous improvement

While public opinion is important, it must be balanced with expert advice and evidence-based practices. Engaging the public early and frequently is critical for identifying key stakeholders. When soliciting public feedback, it is essential to genuinely consider it. However, there will be instances where feedback cannot be implemented due to technical guidelines or best practices. Fostering a process that allows the public to feel engaged should always be seen as a positive aspect of decision making.

Preparing for Comprehensive Plan Updates

By Lori Johnson, Sr Professional Community Planner, WSB

Communities within the seven-county metro area may feel like their 2040 Comprehensive Plans were just adopted and approved by the Metropolitan Council (MC), but the reality is the deadline for their 2050 Comprehensive Plans is just a few short years away. Updating a comprehensive plan is a massive endeavor for some communities and it takes years of preparation. The Metropolitan Council has set the deadline for updating 2050 Comprehensive Plans for September 2028, so it is imperative to begin strategizing now.

The MC has developed a regional development guide titled, Imagine 2050, to help cities understand the goals of the Council during the next round of comprehensive plan updates, Imagine 2050 – Metropolitan Council. In September 2025, the Council will release System Statements to each jurisdiction. These statements, mandated by state law, are designed to assist communities in their upcoming comprehensive plan updates. The information provided by the Met Council will include crucial statistics such as projected population, households, and employment figures.

This article offers guidance on preparing for these updates, including budgeting for external assistance and meeting new requirements.

Forecasts and Community Designations

Understanding the future demographics and designations of your community is a foundational step in the planning process. Accurate forecasts can help predict growth patterns, housing needs, and infrastructure demands, which are essential for effective land use planning.

Existing Land Use

A thorough analysis of existing land use provides insights into current zoning, development patterns, and community needs. This step lays the groundwork for planning future land use and identifying areas that require attention or change.

Future Land Use

Strategic future land use planning ensures that the community evolves in a sustainable and organized manner. This involves designating areas for residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational use, considering factors like population growth and environmental impact.

Staged Development Areas

Planning for staged development areas involves mapping out the phases of future development to ensure orderly growth. This approach prevents overdevelopment and ensures that infrastructure and services are expanded in a manageable and sustainable manner.

Climate and Natural Systems

Statewide Targets for Greenhouse Gas Reductions — New this year

City leaders must acknowledge statewide targets for Greenhouse Gas (GHG) reductions, which aim for a 50% reduction by 2030 and net zero by 2050 from a 2005 baseline. These targets are pivotal in shaping policies and initiatives for climate action.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory — New this year

A new requirement for this planning cycle is the inclusion of a greenhouse gas emissions inventory. This inventory must encompass transportation, energy use, solid waste, and livestock and agriculture, if applicable. It provides a comprehensive view of the community’s carbon footprint and informs strategies for reduction.

Transportation

Transportation planning is integral to comprehensive plans. It includes evaluating current transportation systems, identifying areas for improvement, and planning for future needs. This ensures that the community remains accessible and connected.

Considerations for City Leaders

In-House vs. Consultant Assistance

City leaders must decide whether to undertake this extensive planning process in-house or hire a consultant. While in-house teams may offer familiarity with local issues, consultants bring specialized expertise, efficient workflows, and project management skills, easing the burden on city staff for such a time-consuming project.

Budgeting for the Future

It is crucial to budget for this effort early. If hiring a consultant, cities should consider the cost implications and amend future budgets accordingly. Planning for this expenditure now ensures that funds are available when needed and the project progresses smoothly.

Looking Ahead

Look out for System Statements and other documents from the Met Council, which will be available this fall. These resources will offer essential information that must be incorporated into comprehensive plans, helping city leaders through the process.

By September 2028, every jurisdiction must submit their updated plans to the Metropolitan Council for review and approval. It’s crucial to note that any changes to current comprehensive plans will not be accepted by the Met Council after this 2028 deadline. Inform potential developers of this requirement to guide development strategies proactively.

Preparing for Comprehensive Plan updates is a multifaceted task that requires strategic foresight and meticulous planning. By considering land use, climate action, transportation, and budgeting for assistance, city leaders can ensure that their plans are comprehensive, sustainable, and aligned with statewide goals. Starting the preparation now sets the stage for successful plan updates by September 2028.

WSB is uniquely positioned to assist city leaders in navigating the complexities of comprehensive community planning. With our specialized expertise, efficient workflows, and robust project management skills, we can streamline the entire planning process, ensuring that all necessary components are addressed. By partnering with WSB, cities can confidently move forward, knowing that their community plans will be comprehensive, sustainable, and aligned with long-term goals, keeping their communities thriving and resilient for years to come.

Benefits of Industrial Parks for Communities

October 15, 2024
By Kim Lindquist, Director of Community Planning & Economic Development, WSB

Industrial parks serve as vital engines for economic growth and development within local communities. By concentrating manufacturing and industrial activities within a designated area, cities and towns can better manage resources, isolate transportation impacts, and promote innovation. These industrial zones facilitate the clustering of businesses, which can lead to increased utility efficiency, reduced transportation costs, and the fostering of symbiotic relationships among companies. Moreover, industrial parks can attract additional investments, create employment opportunities, and stimulate local economies through increased demand for retail commercial services and housing.

Effective planning of industrial parks is crucial to maximize their benefits. City planners should conduct comprehensive feasibility studies to identify suitable locations, considering factors such as proximity to transportation hubs, availability of utilities, infrastructure capacity, and potential environmental impact. Zoning regulations need to be tailored to accommodate the specific requirements of industrial activities while ensuring the surrounding communities are protected from potential nuisances. Additionally, incorporating green spaces and sustainable practices can enhance the environmental and social appeal of these areas, making them more attractive to businesses, workers, and nearby neighbors.

Initiation and development of successful industrial parks requires a multi-faceted approach. Cities may consider offering incentives such as tax increment financing, abatements, or streamlined permitting processes to attract businesses. Collaborating with universities and vocational institutions can also drive innovation, attract start-up business prospects and provide a skilled workforce tailored to the needs of the industrial sector. Public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in financing and managing these projects, ensuring that both public interests and private sector expertise are leveraged effectively. Moreover, community engagement is essential to address any concerns and ensure that the development aligns with the broader goals of the city’s residents.

WSB staff can provide valuable assistance in the planning and development of industrial parks. Our team of experts brings a wealth of experience in community planning, economic development, and environmental sustainability. We offer comprehensive services, from initial feasibility studies and site selection to master planning and project management. By partnering with WSB, cities can ensure that their industrial park projects are executed efficiently, sustainably, and in alignment with their long-term economic and community goals. Our commitment to innovation and excellence ensures that we deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each city we work with.

Amplifying Leadership by Advancing Accessibility in Engineering and Engagement

December 3, 2024
By Chhavi Dhingra, Senior Manager of Public Engagement, WSB

On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let us reflect on progress toward accessibility and the work ahead. 

Accessibility—ensuring everyone can participate fully in society—is not just a legal mandate but a moral imperative. People with disabilities contribute far beyond being users of infrastructure. They serve as leaders, trainers, reviewers, service providers and vendors, bringing expertise that enhances project outcomes. This year’s theme emphasizes the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future. 

WSB strives to advance accessibility in every facet of our work. A landmark project with Minneapolis Public Works involved designing the city’s first—and the nation’s second—shared-use street with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant features. 

Recognizing that accessibility goes beyond structural changes to include digital tools, equitable communication, and inclusive urban planning, our Public Engagement team at WSB helps develop materials that address barriers such as low vision, hearing impairments, motor skill challenges, and neurodiverse conditions. Collaborating with digital technologists, we use tools like ArcGIS StoryMaps, Survey123, and Collector for ArcGIS to develop accessible websites, story maps, and web applications compliant with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). 

The ADA’s recent mandate to expand the scope for digital accessibility improvements for state and local governments highlights the importance of rethinking accessibility in a digital-first world. Additional information on ADA requirements for digital communications is available here. 

Accessibility is about creating a world where everyone can thrive, and WSB is committed to this vision by championing accessibility in both design and communication. 

What Is Driving the Demand for Bike and Pedestrian Park Space?

May 20, 2024

By Jordan Gedrose, Landscape Architect, WSB

Published by League of Minnesota Cities in the May-June month’s issue of the Minnesota Cities Magazine. MN Cities Magazine May-June

In recent years, there has been an increase in demand for bike and pedestrian park spaces across the nation, which has also become prevalent in cities across Minnesota. The trend reflects a shift in societal values. There are several factors we are seeing connected to this trend, including public engagement influencing demand, recognition of bicycle and pedestrian park space benefits, and the effects these types of park spaces have on city infrastructure.

Public engagement

Public engagement is increasingly encouraging communities to prioritize investments in bicycle and pedestrian park space, reflecting a growing interest in recreational spaces and active transportation corridors. As community members and stakeholders become more vocal about their desire for healthier, safer, and more sustainable communities, decision makers are responding by allocating resources to expand and enhance infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians.

Advancements in technology, such as social media, have provided new methods to collect citizens’ feedback and has led to an increase in community engagement participation. These methods allow cities to notify community members about opportunities through a variety of channels, which reach a high percentage of the people in each area. Online interactive maps, comment boards, and virtual meetings — methods spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic — allow for greater participation and input than only hosting in-person events.

The pandemic also underscored the importance of outdoor spaces for recreation and social distancing, while also emphasizing park spaces and trails that cater to diverse user groups. By engaging the community, cities and counties can clearly understand needs and are better prepared to provide meaningful bike and pedestrian experiences.

Health benefits

Bicycle and pedestrian park spaces offer a multitude of benefits that contribute to the health, activity, and environment of a city. Regarding health: bike and pedestrian park spaces promote physical activity and healthier lifestyles by providing safe and accessible trails for walking, jogging, and cycling, which can lead to a reduction in the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity and heart disease. These spaces are designed to be accessible to all age groups and abilities. Research provided by City Parks Alliance found that walking loops increase park use by 80%.

Connectivity

Infrastructure that allows bicycle and pedestrian park spaces fosters connectivity between neighborhoods, business districts, and recreational areas — enhancing overall mobility and accessibility for residents and visitors alike.

Communities, big and small, are experiencing improved connectivity, heightened accessibility to amenities, and a revitalization of public spaces spurred on by bike and pedestrian focused infrastructure. Properties located near parks and trail corridors typically attract investment, as parks and trails are often viewed as desirable amenities that enhance quality of life and contribute to a higher standard of living. According to City Parks Alliance, houses near parks or trails have 8-10% higher property values than those in the surrounding community.

Bike and pedestrian park spaces contribute to the creation of vibrant and inclusive communities by providing opportunities for social interaction and recreation — fostering a sense of belonging and connection among residents. These spaces provide opportunities for people to connect with nature, even in urban environments, which has shown positive effects on mental well-being and reducing stress.

Environmental factors

In regard to the environment, prioritizing bike and pedestrian infrastructure promotes active transportation and encourages residents to opt for emission-free modes of transportation, reducing traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. By promoting active transportation and reducing reliance on cars, bicycle and pedestrian park spaces contribute to more sustainable and resilient cities, with improved mobility, accessibility, and environmental stewardship. Bicycle and pedestrian corridors also provide habitat corridors for wildlife, contributing to the biodiversity within a community.

Notable challenges

While these spaces offer many benefits, a few challenges of incorporating bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure may include funding, maintenance, site constraints, and community opposition. The expansion of bicycle and pedestrian park space significantly impacts city infrastructure, ushering in a wave of changes to communities.

Cities across Minnesota are seeing an increase in demand for bicycle and pedestrian park space attributed to an increase in community engagement participation and acknowledgement of the health, recreational, and environmental benefits. Cities have continued to adapt to this evolving infrastructure demand through comprehensive planning efforts and investment in park and trail infrastructure. By implementing these improvements, communities can enhance their quality of life for residents and position themselves as an attractive destination for tourists.

Tips to Help Small Cities Secure Funding

January 15, 2024
By Nate Sparks, Sr Community Planner, WSB

From new housing to industrial park expansions, building projects of various shapes and sizes provide meaningful investments in communities but need adequate funding to move forward. Especially for smaller and rural cities where budgets and resources are often not as big as their more urban counterparts, having a proper plan in place to receive needed funding is critical. Without a vision, local leaders may find themselves chasing results and finding few.

It can become too easy to view funding applications and grants as a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, but without a plan in place, applicants may not only miss out on funding in competitive grant processes, but also miss funding opportunities that will best serve a particular project or goal.

With all this in mind, here are some ways small cities can give themselves an advantage when attempting to find funding for important projects.

Starting with What’s In Your Control

Before seeking external grants, it’s important to start by exploring the tools currently at your disposal. Tax abatement and tax increment financing (TIF) are two methods that cities can use to help push past hurdles and ensure priority projects have adequate funding. Many cities also explore fee waivers and reductions to help make projects more affordable and attainable.  These methods are within your control and may provide enough of a spark to get a project started. Redevelopment and Housing TIF Districts have 25-year durations which can capture a significant amount of revenue.

When outside funding is being pursued, it’s important to accurately consider the requirements of a grant to ensure that your community can meet the minimum requirements and provide a compelling narrative for qualification.

For example, the Innovative Business Development Public Infrastructure (BDPI) grants require the applicant to pay 50% of the cost, so it’s important if a community is pursuing a grant that they are sure that any matching dollars can be met. Other grants may require the applicant to have a specific demographic makeup or to pay all workers involved in the project a certain wage. Smaller cities need to show caution and ensure they are pursuing the best funding sources for them, otherwise certain grants may become more of a financial burden than a smart investment.

Communicating a Clear Need

When seeking external funding, communities need a strategy to set themselves apart from other cities. Be able to articulate why a grant is being sought and why there is a need. Are you cleaning up and repurposing a brownfield? Are you expanding housing to meet a demand for workforce housing? Are you expanding an industrial park to meet a growth in population and to bring in more jobs? Are you in need of a new playground for the influx of younger residents in your community? Applicants need to understand and be able to communicate not only what the project is, but the value it brings to the community. 

Being able to demonstrate in your adopted community plans that what you are seeking is clearly meeting a goal of the city is an ideal and successful strategy. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your planning documents are up to date and reflect the current reality of the community. Having a handle on the community’s context and demographic factors are excellent ways to help demonstrate need and qualifications. These documents also help people from outside your community understand the importance of projects to your community.

Harnessing Regional Collaboration

No community, regardless of size, operates in a silo. Collaborating with surrounding communities, counties or other regional entities can be a great way to not only better your chances of receiving funding but increase the types of grants you can apply for. Grant applications at the county level, for example, can create a mass of multiple groups and voices and needs that can go a long way to help as it expresses a regional demand.

Being in communication with regional partners about your demonstrated needs will alert them to opportunities for collaboration.  Recently, a new playground in a low- to moderate-income city received the necessary funding to be built in part because the county was aware of the city’s goals. Grant funds were available to the county, which then contacted the city about the opportunity. WSB provided the knowledge and technical skill to help produce the plan, identify grants provided by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) where applicable and worked through the application process to make sure the city received the needed funding.

How WSB Can Help

WSB helps cities of all sizes through a comprehensive planning and visioning process which includes identifying priorities, providing demographic data, navigating TIF requirements, bringing in potential developer partners and even writing grant applications.

Whether for revitalizing downtown, constructing housing, expanding industrial parks, building a playground or any other project, WSB can work with cities from start to finish.

Making Public Infrastructure a Catalyst for Economic Development and Community Prosperity

February 6, 2024

By Jay Kennedy, Vice President, WSB

In the vast landscape of economic development, one key piece often remains hidden in plain sight: infrastructure. It’s not just about building roads and bridges; it’s about constructing the foundation for thriving communities and enticing businesses to bring jobs and investment.

Communities that invest in infrastructure with an eye to the future ensure they are the place that people and businesses want to be. Infrastructure is the lifeline that sustains economic progress. From utilities to public transportation to drinking water facilities, when these essential components are robust, designed with intention to the future and well-maintained, they create a fertile ground for businesses and communities to thrive.

Communicating with Businesses & Planning for the Future

The ‘build it and they will come’ approach, although powerful, isn’t the sole ingredient for sustainable growth. Communities need to actively engage with businesses and create an environment that welcomes investment.

Businesses looking for a community in which to invest can bring millions, sometimes even billions of dollars with them. Effective communication between communities and businesses is critical when it comes to infrastructure development. When local leaders say, “we are open for business,” they need the infrastructure and planning to back it up. 

When communities have plans that account for future development, population growth and supporting infrastructure, businesses can see a vision of why they should place their investment in that community.  

Relieving Infrastructure Stress & New Opportunities

There are also situations where upgrades and redesign can alleviate pressure on existing infrastructure and open new opportunities. Improving efficiency in public transportation and redirecting traffic from small community roads to major roadways, for example, can benefit both residents and local businesses. What starts off as one project opens the door for developers wanting to be a part of an up-and-coming area.

As infrastructure pressure is relieved and economic growth continues, it is critical to have a dedicated team that can manage an expanding community. It sends the message that the community is dedicated to growth, attracting even more investment.   

The Ideal Community: Balancing Residential and Commercial Zones

An ideal community strikes a balance between residential and commercial land uses, as well as public spaces. People prefer to live close to work and amenities. A blend of both residential and commercial spaces not only enhances convenience for residents but also attracts businesses looking for a customer base and workforce in proximity.

Collaborating Across the State and Region

Cities looking at their long-term community plans must ensure they also align with county-level planning and broader regional plans. Cooperation and coordination among various levels of government means that an infrastructure project is not operating in a silo, but instead part of a larger plan to drive people and businesses to the region.

How WSB Can Help

In Texas and beyond, the success of public infrastructure projects and planning is driving economic development. WSB is playing a pivotal role in communities throughout Texas, where expertise in smart infrastructure planning and execution has significantly reduced stress on resources while actively attracting businesses to the area.

WSB’s team can help with everything from community planning to public engagement to designing major infrastructure projects and more. We can help your community find ways to bolster economic growth and build infrastructure that fosters the long-term success of your community and region. 

Four Ways to Build a Resilient City Through Zoning and Urban Development

March 11, 2024
By Nate Sparks, Sr Professional Community Planner, WSB

In the last several years, the federal government has passed many programs that provide funding for projects and communities who incorporate sustainability and resiliency. Cities across the country are looking for ways to integrate these concepts into their community planning, not only because they are important and meaningful ideas, but doing so can open their community up to additional funding. Here are some tips to get started for community leaders that are interested in becoming a more sustainable community.

Establish Community Goals in the Comprehensive Plan

What does being a sustainable community mean? Do your residents want to encourage alternative energy sources? Are they concerned about stormwater management? There are many different forms that this can take.  It is important that you have an established community vision. Adding a chapter into your city’s Comprehensive Plan is the ideal approach to take. Setting a big picture vision helps to establish what ordinance changes you pursue.

Prioritize Stormwater Management

The intrusion of improper elements into a city’s stormwater system can be very detrimental. To mitigate against such impacts, it is important to incorporate stormwater management techniques into your zoning ordinance. Setting an impervious surface maximum per building site in lieu of a lot coverage standard is a key first step. Establishing creative ways to allow exceptions for non-conforming lots or protecting sensitive areas with further limits in can be an ideal way to establish proper protections. Both options require careful consideration and proper ordinance writing.

Zoning For Alternative Energy Sources

Reduced energy demand may improve the reliability of the electricity grid. However, a city’s zoning ordinance may prohibit certain alternative energy systems. Solar panels and wind energy conversion systems that residents wish to use may not be allowed. Setting reasonable standards around such uses is a good way to encourage alternative energy solutions. Solar farms are not always appropriate for all areas and creating a thoughtful framework around this concept is of the utmost importance to a community. Finding solutions to resolve conflicts between competing community goals and proper management is ideal.

Subdivision Ordinance Innovation

Subdivision ordinances establish regulations necessary to allow the division of property for additional development rights. Establishing a framework for environmental protection in your subdivision ordinance will allow for a reasonable balance between development rights and environmental protection. For example, many communities explore concepts where population density can be increased if, in exchange, additional protections are offered to ensure long-term management of protected areas.

How we can help

The professionals at WSB can provide guidance and expertise in improving your regulatory systems to achieve your sustainable community goals in relation to sustainability. We have expertise in comprehensive planning, grant writing, and the preparation of ordinances that can help your organization achieve their goals related to sustainability.