Master Plans

A Master Plan provides a vision for, and a rationale to support physical development in a local planning unit of government today and in the future. A Master Plan provides the framework to accommodate that growth. Aesthetic strategies will be balanced with financial considerations, and steps for implementation.

Sample language supporting the integration of New Designs for Growth principles into the master plan process:

Planning for Pathways: An implementation Resource of the New Designs for Growth Guidebook

Pathways - also known as non-motorized transportation facilities - have long been a recreation priority in Northwest Michigan and are critical to the overall well-being of our communities. By providing opportunities for walkng and bicycling, pathways create significant impacts on public health, traffic safety, mobility, the economy, and the environment. The New Designs for Growth Guidebook recognizes that pathways are increasingly important features in new development and site design, and encourages the creation of pathways as an integral component of communities' transportation networks.

Click here to view the Planning for Pathways document.

Recreation Plans

A Recreation Plan provides a vision for, and a rationale to support physical development in a local planning unit of government today and in the future. A Recreation Plan provides the framework to accommodate that growth. Aesthetic strategies will be balanced with financial considerations, and steps for implementation.

Sample language supporting the integration of New Designs for Growth principles into the Recreation Plan process:

Zoning Ordinances

The primary purpose of zoning ordinances is to segregate uses that are thought to be incompatible. Zoning is used as a permitting system to prevent new development from encroaching on existing residents or businesses. Zoning is commonly controlled by local governments such as counties, townships, or municipalities.

Sample language supporting the integration of New Designs for Growth principles into the Zoning Ordinance creation process:

Corridor Overlay District: http://www.tcchamber.org/downloads/pdf/Model_Corridor_Overlay_District%20Draft_2-13-2006.pdf