UrbanPlan Exchange
The UrbanPlan Exchange provides an opportunity for participants to experience the many fundamental forces that shape development. This program is important to facilitate holistic approach to the growth occurring in Central Texas. Attendees participate in a simulation of the planning process involving teams that work together using LEGOS, a site plan and a spreadsheet to respond to a hypothetical RFP for a fictional urban neighborhood. Teams must decide how dense to build out a 5½ block area, whether to keep or move a homeless shelter, what type of retail is appropriate, and which neighborhood groups to keep happy – all while meeting the financial projections of the City and the Developer. The exercise concludes with teams presenting to a mock City Council that awards the project to the Development Team with the best proposal. Workshops are in-person 4-5 hour sessions.
Chair: David Smith, Austin Commercial
Staff Liaison: Cheryl McOsker
This YouTube video provides further insight into the program.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the UrbanPlan for Public Officials Workshops
Target Audience
The UrbanPlan Exchange is offered to industry professionals, business development professionals, allied professions, policymakers, community stakeholders and other thought leaders involved in shaping the communities in which we live, work and play. ULI Austin also offers the program on a contract fee-for-service basis to public/municipal clients and private sector companies for staff development. Workshops can be delivered in-person in a format that ranges from 4-5 hours. If you are interested in attending a workshop or contracting ULI to deliver training for your company, contact [email protected] or (512) 853-9803.
Volunteers Needed
UrbanPlan volunteers must complete a web-based training module that takes approximately 75-90 minutes.
SIGN UP TO BECOME AN URBANPLAN VOLUNTEER
After completing the form, applicants will receive a link to complete a virtual, on-demand training session from the convenience of their desk.
Once training is completed, UrbanPlan volunteers may choose to participate anywhere from 1 to 4 hours each workshop, and you may sign up for dates and times that fit your availability.