Later this week, Planning NEXT Senior Planner Emily Hays, AICP, and Planner Bailey Morlan will be presenting at the Michigan Association of Planning’s Annual Conference in Grand Rapids. They will be discussing the Grand Rapids Community Master Planning process, Bridge to Our Future, focusing on its approach to community engagement.
Hays and Morlan, in tandem with Grand Rapids planning staff members Kristin Turkelson and Layla Aslani, will share insights into how Bridge to Our Future uses innovative engagement strategies to ensure the voices of all community members are heard. In partnership with Sidewalk Detroit, Planning NEXT is spearheading the community engagement strategy, working closely with the established Steering Committee and a the Community Connectors group—created to extend team’s reach into traditionally less involved segments of the population—to ensure the process is inclusive, transparent, and reflective of Grand Rapids’ diverse population.
As the City charts a path toward a more equitable and sustainable future, the presentation will highlight the importance of collaboration, community-driven solutions, and thoughtful planning. Planning NEXT is proud to be leading this effort and looks forward to continuing its work with the City of Grand Rapids.
Don’t miss their session at the Michigan Association of Planning’s Annual Conference!
