Comprehensive Plan VI
Comprehensive Plan VI
The Comprehensive Development Plan (often called a Comprehensive Plan, or simply a Comp Plan) is an official, policy-based document, adopted by a local government, that outlines a community’s vision and strategic policies for future development, land use, housing, transportation, infrastructure, economic development, sustainability, and natural resources that provide a rational basis for local land use decisions. It is a foundational document in urban and regional planning that serves as a long-range guide for a community's growth and development over a specified planning horizon – typically 10 to 20 years.
The plan is shaped by input from members of the community through a highly participatory planning process. It lays out a shared vision for the future—how a community wants to grow, what it will look like, and to make it a better place to live, work, and play.
What is the public role in the process?
The Comp Plan planning process is highly participatory, involving residents, business owners, city and university officials, and community organizations. Most importantly, it involves you. The plan only works if it reflects the voices, values, and priorities of Newark residents. Over the next several months, you will have opportunities to share your ideas through public meetings both virtually and in person, surveys, and online tools. Your input will help answer big questions, like:
- What kind of housing should Newark prioritize?
- How should we improve walking, biking, and transit options?
- What’s most important to protect and preserve for future generations?
This is your chance to shape Newark’s future and make sure the plan reflects what matters most to our community.
Elements of a Comprehensive Plan
Population Data and Analysis: Past population trends, projections, & demographics.
Housing: Housing stock inventory, housing pipeline, needs analysis, and an Affordable Housing Plan.
Annexation: Analysis of surrounding land uses and Annexation Plan.
Redevelopment Potential: Identification of redevelopment areas, issues, and strategy, and a Community Development Plan.
Community Character: History, physical conditions, significant natural features, Historic & Cultural Plan, and Environmental Protection Plan
Land Use: Existing Land Use, and Land Use Plan.
Critical Community Development and Infrastructure Issues: Water and Wastewater Plan, Transportation Plan, Community Facilities Plan
Intergovernmental Coordination: Intergovernmental relationships and coordination strategy.
Economic Conditions: Economic Base/Major Employers, Income and poverty, and Economic Development Plan
Open Space and Recreation: Inventory of open space and Recreation Plan.
Why are Comp Plans important?
Comp Plans shape daily life in ways you may not notice. They influence where new homes and businesses can be built, how easy it is to walk or bike across town, how traffic flows, and how we protect our natural resources. A strong plan ensures Newark remains a vibrant, connected, and welcoming place - meeting the needs of current and future residents.
Get Involved.
If you would like additional information, please contact Michael Fortner, Senior Planner, Department of Planning and Development, at (302) 366-7000 ex: 2041 or by email: mfortner@newark.de.us .
Meeting Announcement
Please join us this Thursday, December 11th at 7pm for the Comprehensive Development Plan's Steering Committee meeting!