What is a Comprehensive Plan?

A comprehensive plan is a document prepared for a community that answers three questions:

1. Where are we now?
2. What do we want to be in the future?
3. How do we get there?

By answering these questions during a public process that engages citizens, elected officials, and community staff members, a comprehensive plan serves as a guide for a community to take action to improve its future.

A comprehensive plan has three parts: an inventory of existing conditions, a vision statement, and an action plan.

Inventory of existing conditions

This inventory answers the question, "Where are we now?"  In it we analyze data, identify trends, and make projections pertaining to land use, population, housing, economic development, transportation, community infrastructure, natural resources, and other components. The strengths and weaknesses of a community also are identified during this step.

Vision statement

The vision statement answers the question, "Where do we want to be in the future?" It is based on existing conditions, strengths and weaknesses, and community input. It presents a picture of what the community desires to be. The action plan, which answers the third question, consists of goals devised for the community and objectives that, when completed, achieve the goals. By including all three sections, a comprehensive plan is based on real data, projects a realistic vision, and provides a realistic blueprint for community improvement.

Action Plan

An action plan includes goals, action steps, and ways to implement the vision statement.  It answers the question, "How do we get there?"  The action plan can include a future land use map, which identifies the areas of a community best suited for residential, commercial, open space, and other uses.  This map is an important component of a comprehensive plan.

A comprehensive plan addresses many facets of a community, and by incorporating the input of community members, it tackles a community’s most pressing development issues.

Other Benefits

A comprehensive plan also has other benefits.  It serves as a source of information for prospective residents and businesses considering relocating to the community. It makes a community attractive by showing others that the community is dedicated to positive change. It provides a defensible legal basis for zoning and other decisions. Whether a community is expected to change a little or change a lot, a comprehensive plan is a valuable asset.

If you would like to learn more about how TCRPC can help your community craft a comprehensive plan, please contact us.