Regional Land Use Planning
As the Northwest Indiana region develops, NIRPC examines how to leverage existing physical and service system infrastructure to manage development costs. NIRPC addresses emerging needs by placing local choices within a broader regional framework and influencing decision-makers to ensure the region's high quality of life and to serve a growing, diverse population. In addition to more traditional land-use planning, NIRPC's role has expanded to facilitate regional collaborative efforts on land use, including environmental and transportation initiatives. NIRPC also provides local planners with training on important emerging issues.
Helpful Links
- NWI 2050+ Land Use & Housing
The Land Use & Housing chapter of NWI 2050+ focuses on regional issues like population growth, housing, urban and rural design, transportation, active transportation, public transit, and freight movement. The Land Use & Housing full report and Summary can be found in the following links:
- Land Use & Housing Summary
- Community-Based Snapshot
The Community-Based Snapshot is derived from the NWI 2050+ recommendations for overall land-use development and housing needs. It offers guidance and recommendations for enhancing local planning processes, including updating comprehensive plans and zoning ordinances. It includes traditional centers, community corridors, and development nodes, which will guide infrastructure funding and new land uses.
Available Communities:
Burns Harbor Lake Station Cedar Lake Lowell Crown Point Merrillville Dyer Michigan City East Chicago Munster Gary Portage Griffith Schererville Hammond St. John Highland Valparaiso Hobart Whiting La Porte Winfield - Local Governments Technical Assistance
Sensible Tools Handbook for Indiana (2007)
The Sensible Tools Handbook for Indiana is a guidebook for implementing the principles of Sensible Growth in Indiana. It is intended to serve as a reader, reference source, and handbook for public officials, professionals, and citizens interested in applying principles of good planning and Sensible Growth in their communities. The handbook is based on Indiana planning and zoning law and on smart-growth best practices applied within the state.
Sensible Tools Handbook+ (2023)
The 2023 Sensible Tools Handbook+ supplements the broad suite of planning tools and best practices available to address new opportunities and challenges. It features insights from various organizations and experts, highlighting common recommendations for building resilient, healthy, sustainable, equitable, and smart communities.
- Local Governments Technical Assistance (LTA) Funding Program
Coming Soon...
NIRPC is in the process of establishing the Local Technical Assistance (LTA)/LPA Planning Assistance program to provide funding to local governments, nonprofits, and public agencies, such as transit operators, to complete local plans and studies that implement the goals and strategies of NIRPC's regional plans.
The goal is to enhance the quality of life, access, and density near major centers, corridors, and transit stations. NIRPC provides this funding and support to create sustainable, equitable, walkable, and friendly areas and to support local businesses.