Based on the author's extensive experience as a working planner, this book gives students an insider's view
of sub-state urban planning�the �nitty-gritty� details on the interplay of politics, law, money, and interest groups.
The author takes a balanced, non-judgmental approach to introduce a range of ideological and political perspectives
on the operation of political, economic, and demographic forces in city planning. Unlike other books on the subject,
this text is strong in its coverage of economics, law, finance, and urban governance. It examines the underlying
forces of growth and change and discusses frankly who benefits and loses by particular decisions.
A chapter on Planning in Other Nations�Features sections devoted to planning in Great Britain, France, Germany,
The Netherlands, Sweden, Eastern Europe, and the Third World.
Gives students a basis of comparison for planning in American cities. Ex. Ch. 18
Expanded chapter on Planning for Metropolitan Regions�Discusses the role of Councils of Governments and public
authorities, and offers examples from the Atlanta regional commission and the Port of New York Authority.
Increases students' grasp and retention of concepts by using familiar real-world examples. Ex. Ch. 16
Detailed discussion of the problem of homelessness and its links to housing markets and planning practice.
Demonstrates the relevance of the material with a very familiar issue.
Updated discussion on international efforts to deal with the greenhouse effect�Includes an account of the Kyoto
summit on the matter.
Maintains student interest and demonstrates the relevance of the material with a topic students can relate
to.
Updated material on traffic management techniques.
Keeps students up to date on a topic prevalent in their lives.
An update on the legal issue of restrictive zoning and the present status of the Mt. Laurel cases.
Keeps students up to date on the legal issues impacting the practice and study of urban planning.
References to newspaper and magazine sources as well as traditional research references.
Increases students' interest level with references and issues they are more familiar with.
End-of-chapter pedagogy�Summary, Notes, and Bibliography.
Helps students assess their knowledge of previously covered material, and encourages additional study outside
of class.
Table of Contents
I. THE BACKGROUND AND DEVELOPMENT OF CONTEMPORARY PLANNING.
1. An Overview.
2. The Urbanization of America.
3. The History of Planning: Part I.
4. The History of Planning: Part II.
II. THE STRUCTURE AND PRACTICE OF CONTEMPORARY PLANNING.
5. The Legal Basis of Planning.
6. Planning and Politics.
7. The Social Issues.
8. The Comprehensive Plan.
9. The Tools of Land-Use Planning.
III. FIELDS OF PLANNING.
10. Urban Design.
11. Urban Renewal and Community Development.
12. Transportation Planning.
13. Economic Development Planning.
14. Growth Management Planning.
15. Environmental and Energy Planning.
16. Planning for Metropolitan Regions.
IV. LARGER QUESTIONS.
17. National Planning in the United States.
18. Planning in Other Nations.
19. Planning Theory.
