Urban Planning Manager

Position Summary

The Urban Planning Manager directly supports DDI’s efforts in planning and implementation of initiatives at City Hall that impact DDI, stakeholders, and the broader Downtown environment.  Additionally, the Urban Planning Manager will play an integral role in the development of DDI’s policy work at the local and state level. 

This position is responsible for managing and influencing planning initiatives that impact Downtown Dallas, including both public and private projects. Development of policy guidelines, development and oversight of DDI capital improvement projects, and activation of the public realm will drive the planning manager’s work product and will inform DDI’s overall position as a knowledge leader in urban planning and development.  The Urban Planning manager will report directly to the Vice President –Planning & Policy.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Downtown Policy Support and Development

• Work with DDI staff to craft DDI policy statements relating to local planning initiatives and development.
• Support policy development for internal and external Downtown planning-related policy initiatives, working closely with municipal policymakers and stakeholders
• Assist in drafting DDI policy positions as they relate to Dallas City Council and other interagency initiatives. 
• Monitor City Council, Council Committees, and public meetings to track key issues at City Hall and provide updates and talking points to DDI staff and stakeholders.

Implementation and Advancement of the 360 Plan, the area plan for Downtown, and Other Planning Efforts

• Oversee and manage the implementation of key initiatives called for in the 360 Plan.
• Serve as the first point of contact for local planning matters.
• Work with City of Dallas staff on other city- and neighborhood-wide planning initiatives.
• Support and advance new and ongoing mobility planning initiatives.
• Participate in interagency mobility planning, ensuring plans and projects forward DDI planning goals. 
• Support and implement projects to encourage walking and micro-mobility options in Downtown.
• Interface and consult with City of Dallas staff on micro-mobility and transit infrastructure in Downtown.
• Work with surrounding neighborhoods to support planning in adjacent neighborhoods and enhance physical connections between neighborhoods/districts.
• Support DDI’s housing policy development and planning.
• Manage community relationships and stakeholder groups as it relates to planning initiatives, capital projects, and developments.
• Become a lead community liaison regarding planning issues (e.g., attending neighborhood development meetings, and ensuring communication between developers and community stakeholders).

Capital Improvements

• Assist with  DDI’s Matching Grant Program and support other DDI funding opportunities for infrastructure and public realm improvements.
• Serve as a liaison for Downtown for the City of Dallas capital projects to ensure a smooth rollout and consistent stakeholder communication and reporting. 
• Develop strategies to further enhance and activate public spaces in Downtown with permanent capital improvements.
• Track and communicate progress on City capital bond projects and other construction activities in the public ROW.

Development Regulatory Research and Assistance

• Navigate City Hall regulatory processes and build/maintain City relationships to assist private stakeholders, developments, and projects.
• Research and interpret City code and other regulatory guidelines for DDI staff, members, and stakeholders.
• Consult with Downtown business owners and stakeholders to assist in regulatory approvals for developments and permits.
• Review private and public infrastructure projects and developments to ensure all positively contribute to the Downtown environment.

Requirements

 Education and Experience

• BA/BS in urban planning, architecture, landscape architecture or other related field
• Minimum of five years of experience in Planning or related field
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Proven ability to research and develop urban policy.
• Ability to communicate with all levels of management.
• Knowledge of city codes and ordinances

Computer Skills

• Proficient computer skills including electronic mail, record keeping, routine database activity, word processing, spreadsheets, etc. 
• Experience in Microsoft Office applications: Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint