The Planning Department helps ensure the community develops in a safe, efficient and attractive manner and strives to achieve quality developments enhancing the quality of life for our citizens. The Planning Department is comprised of three divisions:
Current Planning and Development Review administers the review of proposed development projects to ensure compliance with the City's development regulations. This section coordinates pre-submittal meetings, administers the zoning, and platting process. This arm of the department prepares and presents site data and recommendations to the Plan Commission and City Council regarding zoning considerations, plats, and request for variances to development standards.
Comprehensive Planning coordinates the long-range planning activities in the City and responds to requests for demographic and mapping information. This section is responsible for the creation and implementation of the Garland Comprehensive Plan, a tool setting forth goals, recommendations, policies and implementation programs for guiding the development of Garland. Other projects include downtown revitalization, transit-oriented development (TOD), and the commercial corridor improvement projects.
Neighborhood Planning is primarily engaged in the Strategy for Vital Neighborhoods, an interdepartmental effort aimed at engaging Garland neighbors in creating and maintaining healthy, vibrant neighborhoods. This section supports the Strategy as primary coordinators and creates Neighborhood Action Plans outlining strategies addressing neighborhood issues. Neighborhood Planning serves as a resource to Garland neighborhoods by providing project management expertise to neighborhood organizations.
The Department is actively pursuing grant opportunities under the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (“ARRA” or the “Recovery Act”) to combat the downturn in the economy. Please click here to read more about how our Department and the City of Garland is working to bring jobs and new investment into the community.