American Planning Association

History

The American Planning Association (APA) was established in 1978 through the consolidation of the American Institute of Planners (AIP) and the American Society of Planning Officials (ASPO). This merger aimed to unify the planning profession and provide a comprehensive platform for urban and regional planners across the United States. The APA has since grown to become a leading organization in the field of urban planning, with a membership that includes professional planners, students, elected officials, and engaged citizens.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of the APA is to advance the art, science, and profession of planning by fostering the development of vital communities. The organization seeks to achieve this through advocacy, education, and the dissemination of best practices in planning. The APA's objectives include promoting sustainable development, enhancing the quality of life in communities, and ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities.

Organizational Structure

The APA is governed by a Board of Directors, which includes elected officers and representatives from various regions and divisions. The organization is divided into several components:

**National Office:** Located in Chicago, Illinois, the national office oversees the overall administration and coordination of APA activities.
**Chapters:** The APA has 47 chapters across the United States, each representing a specific geographic area. These chapters provide localized support, networking opportunities, and professional development for members.
**Divisions:** The APA has 21 divisions that focus on specialized areas of planning, such as transportation, environmental planning, and housing. These divisions offer resources and forums for members with specific interests.
**Student Organizations:** The APA supports student organizations at universities and colleges, fostering the next generation of planners.

Membership and Certification

The APA offers several membership categories, including professional, student, and retired memberships. Members benefit from access to a wide range of resources, including publications, conferences, and networking opportunities.

The American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is the professional institute within the APA that certifies planners who have met rigorous standards of education, experience, and ethics. AICP certification is a mark of professional excellence and is highly regarded in the field of urban planning.

Publications and Resources

The APA publishes a variety of materials to support the planning profession, including:

**Planning Magazine:** A monthly publication that covers current issues, trends, and best practices in planning.
**Journal of the American Planning Association (JAPA):** A peer-reviewed academic journal that publishes research articles, case studies, and reviews on a wide range of planning topics.
**Planning Advisory Service (PAS) Reports:** In-depth reports on specific planning issues, providing practical guidance and policy recommendations.
**Books and E-books:** The APA publishes books on various aspects of planning, written by experts in the field.

Conferences and Events

The APA hosts several conferences and events throughout the year, providing opportunities for professional development, networking, and knowledge sharing. The most notable event is the APA National Planning Conference, held annually in different cities across the United States. This conference attracts thousands of planners and features keynote speakers, workshops, and sessions on a wide range of planning topics.

Advocacy and Policy

The APA actively engages in advocacy efforts to influence public policy and promote the interests of the planning profession. The organization works with federal, state, and local governments to advance policies that support sustainable development, equitable communities, and effective planning practices. The APA's policy agenda is shaped by its members and reflects the priorities of the planning profession.

Education and Professional Development

The APA offers a variety of educational programs and resources to support the ongoing professional development of planners. These include:

**Webinars and Online Courses:** The APA provides online learning opportunities on a wide range of planning topics, allowing members to earn continuing education credits.
**Workshops and Training Sessions:** In-person and virtual workshops offer hands-on training and skill-building opportunities.
**Certification Maintenance:** AICP-certified planners are required to engage in ongoing professional development to maintain their certification. The APA offers a range of activities to help planners meet these requirements.

Research and Innovation

The APA is committed to advancing the field of planning through research and innovation. The organization supports research initiatives that address critical planning issues and contribute to the development of new knowledge and practices. The APA's research activities include:

**Research Grants:** The APA provides funding for research projects that align with its mission and priorities.
**Collaborative Research:** The APA partners with academic institutions, government agencies, and other organizations to conduct research on planning-related topics.
**Data and Analysis:** The APA collects and analyzes data on various aspects of planning, providing valuable insights and information to support decision-making.

Awards and Recognition

The APA recognizes excellence in planning through a variety of awards and honors. These include:

**National Planning Awards:** The APA's National Planning Awards program honors outstanding planning projects, plans, and individuals who have made significant contributions to the field.
**Fellows of the American Institute of Certified Planners (FAICP):** This honor recognizes planners who have made exceptional contributions to the profession and society.
**Chapter and Division Awards:** APA chapters and divisions also offer awards to recognize achievements at the local and specialized levels.

International Engagement

The APA is actively engaged in the global planning community and collaborates with international organizations to promote best practices and knowledge exchange. The organization participates in international conferences, provides technical assistance to planning projects around the world, and supports the development of planning capacity in emerging economies.

Challenges and Future Directions

The planning profession faces a range of challenges, including rapid urbanization, climate change, and social inequality. The APA is committed to addressing these challenges through innovative planning approaches and policies. Future directions for the organization include:

**Sustainability:** Promoting sustainable development practices that balance environmental, social, and economic considerations.
**Resilience:** Enhancing the resilience of communities to withstand and recover from natural and human-made disasters.
**Equity:** Ensuring that planning processes and outcomes are inclusive and equitable, providing opportunities for all members of society.