What is an Urbanist?

Urbanists are individuals who study, design, and work to improve the built environment of cities and towns. They may come from a variety of backgrounds, including architecture, urban planning, landscape architecture, engineering, economics, sociology, and political science. Urbanists may work in government, private practice, non-profit organizations, or academia, and their work may involve a range of activities, such as:

1. Urban planning: Developing plans and policies for the physical development of cities and towns, including zoning regulations, transportation systems, and public spaces.
2. Architecture: Designing buildings and other structures that are sensitive to the needs of urban environments and the people who live and work in them.
3. Land use planning: Coordinating the use of land for different purposes, such as residential, commercial, and industrial development.
4. Transportation planning: Designing and implementing transportation systems, such as streets, highways, and public transit, that are safe, efficient, and accessible to all.
5. Urban design: Creating vibrant, livable public spaces that promote social interaction, economic activity, and community engagement.
6. Sustainability: Promoting environmentally-friendly practices and technologies in urban development, such as green buildings, renewable energy, and sustainable transportation.
7. Community engagement: Working with local residents, businesses, and organizations to ensure that urban planning and design decisions reflect the needs and priorities of the community.
8. Economic development: Encouraging economic growth and investment in cities and towns through strategic planning, infrastructure development, and support for local businesses.
9. Social equity: Promoting fairness and equality in urban development, including addressing issues such as affordable housing, access to education and healthcare, and social inclusion.

Overall, the goal of urbanists is to create vibrant, sustainable, and equitable cities and towns that meet the needs of all residents and stakeholders.