Planning/Regions/Growth

This semester-long course builds on two modules previously offered separately – Regional Planning: Theory and Practice (Carbonell) and From Growth Management to Smart Growth (Yaro). It is not just for planners. Moving from theory to practice, the course deals with the idea of the region, the trajectory of \”smart growth,\” and the challenge of shaping urban development in the U.S. It begins with the problem of delineating regions, using both conventional and unexpected data (e.g. espresso maps of the New West), dealing with concepts of space and place, authenticity and essence (e.g. the \”Cape Codness\” of Cape Cod). Students will rediscover the work of Mumford, MacKaye, and other pioneers of the Regional Planning Association of America, and become acquainted with the tools needed to \”uncover, reveal, and visualize\” regions.We then take up the issue of growth and its management, the conflict between the natural region and the metropolitan region, and the potential for resolving this conflict and restoring MacKaye\’s \”primeval.\” We will study the strengths and limitations of contemporary U.S. planning models, drawing in part on the instructor\’s experiences in establishing a new planning system on Cape Cod. Finally, we will contemplate the future of regions and growth management under conditions of increasing footlooseness.Pedagogic Objectives:To provide a basic understanding of the theory and practice of regional planning in the U.S., with particular attention to issues of growth management. Time Commitment:In addition to attending the weekly seminar, completion of a moderate weekly reading assignment and/or brief exercise, and completion of two short papers is required.Basis of Final Grade: Two short papers (1/3 each) and participation (1/3).Prerequisites: An interest in regional planning and growth management.