A systems approach to urban planning

The purpose of this research is to develop a new concept of an urban planning system, utilizing a systems approach to the overall concept and function of municipal organization and operation. The systems approach emphasizes objectives which are common to the effective coordination of independent parts in an integral whole, and offers the opportunity to apply proven theory to urban organizations and planning. The proposed urban planning system is developed about a multilevel system concept which emphasizes a new approach to municipal organization, a restructured planning process, an analytical capability, and an integral information system. These are combined in a concept that is built upon comprehensive urban planning and which provides an implementation capability that converts long-range planning into operational directives for the system. The conceptual system is directed toward achieving the comprehensive plan and combines both a new comprehensive planning process and a new operational planning process to achieve that purpose. The comprehensive planning process is based upon thorough problem definition and specific objectives. All possible alternative solutions are generated and are analytically evaluated and selected. Citizen participation and input into the process is solicited to assist in the determination of a specific course of action. Long-range programs are developed which are to guide the overall development of the urban area, and the sum of these programs constitute the comprehensive plan. Changing conditions and requirements are continuously monitored to determine factors which might alter the identified course of action and intent embodied in the comprehensive plan. These become the basis for continual problem redefinition and updating of the comprehensive plan. ..