|
Title:
|
Understanding Planning in Houston |
|
Scholar:
|
Nycole C. Simpkins |
|
School:
|
Department of Urban Planning and Environmental Policy
Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs
Texas Southern University |
|
Mentor:
|
Dr. Bradshaw Hovey |
[View Presentation ( 78 KB)] |
Houston, Texas has a strong reputation as a city that refuses to plan for its future. Even though the local law requires that Houston create a comprehensive plan for its long-term development, the effort in making this happen has not been agreed upon by everyone. Chapter 33 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Houston mandates such a plan and provides a framework for what it should contain.
This project was initiated to gain a better understanding of urban planning in the Houston region and to see how existing planning documents can assist with the establishment of a comprehensive plan. These efforts included identifying the various plans and analyzing the visions, values, and goals used to address the challenges that Houston faces with traffic congestion, affordable housing, air quality, open space preservation, population growth, and several other concerns. The research for this project was conducted this summer by utilizing internet sources, attending neighborhood and public meetings, and collecting data from the City of Houston Planning and Development Department. Thirty eight plans were reviewed and analyzed that related to urban planning in the Houston region. The report concludes with a summary of how existing plans can be connected to develop a prototype comprehensive plan. It also presents the benefits of plans and the elements required to assist in the implementation of a comprehensive plan for long-term developments.