In 2006, the Westchester County Planning Board embarked on a review of the County’s planning policies in the context of the challenges confronting the region today.  The board found that its current land use policy document, Patterns for Westchester: The Land and the People, continues to provide a solid foundation.  Centers, corridors and open space continue to be the building blocks of Westchester’s pattern of development.  Yet there are new pressing issues that require specific acknowledgement and action.

The board also found that although all Westchester municipalities conduct comprehensive planning, the 43 individual plans are difficult to align into a county-wide vision.  Each plan uses its own vocabulary to define the future.  Open this composite map of municipal plans to see the problem.  Click here to find out the age of your municipality's comprehensive plan.

Click on “Why we plan” for a graphic overview of how planning decisions shape our quality of life.

“Defining character” explores the vital need to identify, preserve and enhance the distinct character and visual quality of Westchester’s cities, towns, villages and neighborhoods so as to reinforce their residents’ sense of place.

“The right density” shows the role that development density plays in achieving smart growth.  Westchester 2025 revisits the density recommendations of Patterns and finds a need for changes.

Westchester's Challenges: