Fundamental Planning Knowledge Flashcards
7 cards from real AICP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Fundamental Planning Knowledge flashcards as text
Which urban design concept, introduced by Jane Jacobs, argues that dense mixed-use neighborhoods with short blocks generate vibrant urban life?
Answer: The four generators of diversity
Jane Jacobs identified four conditions that generate urban diversity: mixed primary uses, short blocks, buildings of varying ages, and sufficient population density.
A 'variance' in zoning law differs from a 'special use permit' in that a variance:
Answer: Provides relief from dimensional or physical standards of a zoning ordinance, while a special use permit allows particular uses conditionally
A variance grants relief from specific dimensional standards (setbacks, height, lot coverage) when strict application would cause undue hardship, while a special use permit allows uses conditionally permitted in a zone.
In community development, what is a 'Community Development Block Grant' (CDBG) primarily intended to support?
Answer: Activities that principally benefit low- and moderate-income persons or address slum and blight
CDBG funds, administered by HUD, must primarily benefit low- and moderate-income persons, aid in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight, or address urgent community development needs.
What is the key distinction between 'mitigation' and 'adaptation' in climate change planning?
Answer: Mitigation reduces greenhouse gas emissions to slow climate change; adaptation adjusts to current and expected climate impacts
Climate mitigation involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions to limit the magnitude of future climate change, while adaptation involves adjusting systems and communities to cope with climate impacts that are already occurring or inevitable.
What principle underlies the planning concept of 'complete streets'?
Answer: Streets should be designed to safely accommodate all users including pedestrians, cyclists, transit riders, and motorists
Complete streets policies require that roadway projects be planned, designed, and operated to enable safe access for all users regardless of age, ability, or mode of transportation.
When conducting a planning analysis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), a 'buffer analysis' is used to:
Answer: Identify all features within a specified distance from a selected feature
A buffer analysis in GIS creates a zone of specified distance around a feature (point, line, or polygon) to identify other features or areas within that proximity.
The 'regional equity' concept in planning addresses which core concern?
Answer: Reducing disparities in access to opportunities such as housing, jobs, transit, and services across a metropolitan area
Regional equity planning seeks to reduce spatial inequalities in access to opportunity, ensuring that low-income communities and communities of color have fair access to affordable housing, quality schools, jobs, and public services.