In recognition of October as National Community Planning Month, the Chester County Commissioners have issued a formal proclamation noting the county’s many regional and local planning initiatives, both before and during the COVID-19 outbreak.

“Change is constant and affects all municipalities in Chester County, and community planning can help manage this change in a way that provides better choices for how people work and live,” the proclamation states. “Community planning provides an opportunity for all residents to be meaningfully involved in making choices that determine the future of their community.

“Chester County is implementing Landscapes3 (the county’s comprehensive plan) by encouraging appropriate economic development and resiliency, preserving open space, supporting urban center infrastructure and affordable housing, expanding trails, providing planning guidance, advocating for expanded public transportation and roads, collaborating with municipalities and other key partners, and pursuing a variety of initiatives.”

This year’s national theme – planning is essential to recovery – highlights how planning can lead communities to equitable, resilient, and long-lasting recovery from the effects of COVID-19, which has been evident in a number of ways throughout Chester County.

Some recent planning initiatives that have resulted from the current pandemic include the new Restore Chester County website, which provides resources and updates for residents and businesses regarding reopening procedures and guidelines; the 2020 Town Tours and Village Walks program’s Virtual Summer Series; and the Chester County Economy Report, which provides data and information to help guide an Economic Recovery Plan for the county.

“The Planning Commission’s economic data, transportation advocacy, urban revitalization efforts, and municipal planning support will help the economic recovery of our communities, businesses, and residents,” said Brian O’Leary, the Planning Commission’s Executive Director.

The Planning Commission is also hosting a number of virtual public events and meetings this fall, including:

• 2020 Urban Centers Forum: R&R – Restoration and Recovery on Oct. 13 and Oct. 15 from 3-5 PM
• 2020 Fall Planners Forum on Oct. 28 from 8-10 AM
• A+ Homes Forum on Nov. 17 and Nov. 19 from 3-5 PM

All events will take place via Zoom and are free to attend (but require registration). Click here to learn more about Chester County’s ongoing planning initiatives.

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