Regional Planning
Regional planning focuses on the efficient use of infrastructure, land-use activities and settlement involving a geographical area, generally much larger than a city or town. It often involves working with local lawmakers for the effective management of the region and its resources.
The areas of a regional planning unit can vary, and the administrative organization can function effectively in a variety of models. Regional planning may cover an area of one state, or it may extend across state lines to encompass a region spanning physical boundaries instead of political boundaries.
Regional planning focuses on the effective use of infrastructure and zoning to create a sustainable future for the region. Many of the economic and environmental concerns that must be taken into consideration for the development of an area are best handled by a regional planning commission.
Regional planning administration may include:
- Protecting farmland
- Planning for industrial business
- Transportation and infrastructure
- Military bases
- Wilderness protection and management
Some specific examples of regional planning roles:
- Set policy and zoning for a balance between residential and commercial properties.
- Determine zoning laws and building codes that establish the best possible use of land resources.
- Design infrastructure for transportation, such as specific corridors and respective hubs and spokes.
- Set regulations for development alongside flood plains or earthquake faults.
The Mo-Kan Regional Planning Commission
The Mo-Kan regional planning commission exists as a cooperative effort between its member counties for a variety of problem-solving and future development opportunities in the region. MO-KAN members work together to make the most of the economic, natural and human resources available in the region to better serve local communities.
The main function of the commission is to provide professional planning resources to the region’s members and promote the general welfare of the area, including the public health, safety and economic prosperity of the region’s residents.