Planning To Coordinate And Coordinating The Plan: Evidence From Local Governments

The coordination of planning among local governments is an important strategy for addressing many challenges that go beyond geographical or political jurisdictions such as those related to transportation congestion, educational performance, public safety, and the environment. This study examines the use of planning coordination and factors associated with its use. Based on a national survey and in-depth interviews among jurisdictions with populations of more than 50,000, the study finds that about 40% of jurisdictions frequently use coordinated, comprehensive plans, most commonly in public safety, traffic congestion, transit planning, and economic development. Among respondents, 78.7% agree or strongly agree that coordination with other jurisdictions and organizations is important in solving complex community problems. The perceived effectiveness of other jurisdictions and the presence of a revitalized management work culture are important factors associated with the increased use of such planning. © 2005 Sage Publications