New York, March 18, 2008 — The Municipal Art Society of New York, as part of its Campaign for Community Based Planning, will present a series of panel discussions to promote community-based planning in New York City.

The series, titled “Creating the City We All Want: A Roadmap,” will be conducted in conjunction with the release of the Fifth Edition of Planning for All New Yorkers: the Atlas of Community-Based Plans, a resource that compiles all community-based plans undertaken in New York City since 1989. This series will explore the potential of neighborhood-led plans to shape equitable development and growth in the city, from the perspective of elected officials, community advocates, and planners.

This forum serves as the official launch of the new Atlas of Community-Based Plans, which illustrates that New Yorkers are increasingly pro-active planners – there has been a 40% increase in the number of community-based plans in New York City since 2004. Still, the Atlas also uncovers a disconnect between public consensus and allocation of public funds. How do our elected leaders plan to get the city on track toward a real planning and development partnership between government and communities?

Panelists:

• Scott Stringer, Manhattan Borough President
• Tony Avella, City Council Member
• Gale Brewer, City Council Member
• Ron Shiffman, Director Emeritus, Pratt Center for Community Development (moderator)