Urban Design Committee

About the Program

The Urban Design Committee is new to the Division. Previously, urban design programming has been conducted by the Division in a variety of ways, but now a focused group of committee members works to advance urban design programming for members. The committee is comprised of members from all over the country who are in a variety of places in their careers. We meet monthly and really enjoy discussing urban design together.

OUR GOALS

Ultimately, we strive to serve members of the Urban Design & Preservation Division and APA members. We used a survey of Division membership to give some introductory ideas for a work program. We followed that with a group brainstorm that uncovered a long list of ways we could serve members, as well as engage in work that appeals to our own urban design interests.

Urban Design Walkabouts

Pilot Walkabout at NPC 26 brought about 80 participants together in person to experience, analyze, and discuss some of Downtown Detroit’s most iconic urban spaces. The walk demonstrated how experiential observation and collective reflection can directly inform professional planning practice and community-engaged design.

The pilot established a clear framework and introduced a practical toolkit for others to lead similar walk-based experiences in their own communities. It will continue to build on this momentum, supporting ongoing dialogue and shared learning as others conduct walks and contribute their insights.

Webinar Series

Together with thePlanning, Preservation, and Change Committee, we’re bringing experts together around key urban design and preservation topics.

Let us know if you’re interested in participating or if you have topics you’d like to see discussed!