Benefits of Master Planning

Planning for the future is much more than providing new buildings and roads. It is about embracing the human element and creating places that are attractive for people to live, work and play.

Unlike piecemeal developments seen throughout the region, planned communities take into consideration the environmental, civic and economic impacts that come with growth. Transportation, school and environmental mitigation will reduce impacts that are typically not addressed by small-scale development. For example, we have committed to no net increase of phosphorus resulting from the developed portions of The Villages and Lawson Hills to Lake Sawyer. The scale of the development allows us to better control stormwater to accomplish this goal.

Master planning means being deliberate and providing parks, open spaces and community centers where people can gather. It also incorporates the creation of alternatives to vehicle trips by providing connections for pedestrians and bicycles to reach the various amenities. Furthermore, it creates a healthy mix of jobs, services and housing.

By providing locations for new and expanded businesses to flourish that will in turn increase the tax base for the City of Black Diamond, all residents benefit from enhanced infrastructure and schools, roads, and adequately staffed public services such as police and fire departments.