New Haven Wins National Planning Award For Vision 2034

New Haven's Vision 2034 comprehensive plan has won the 2026 American Planning Association Daniel Burnham Award for a Comprehensive Plan, the city announced Thursday, Oct. 29. The plan guides city decisions on housing, economic development, transportation and climate resilience over the next decade.

The Board of Alders and City Plan Commission adopted Vision 2034 in October 2025 following a community engagement process, according to the city. Connecticut municipalities must develop a comprehensive plan every 10 years.

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"Vision 2034 puts residents at the center of planning by recognizing community members as partners and experts," said Samantha Castro, chair of the 2026 APA National Planning Awards, in the city's announcement. "New Haven created meaningful opportunities for people to help shape a plan rooted in the experiences, ideas, and priorities of the community."

"Vision 2034 isn't just words and proposals on a paper, it is our guide towards a more equitable and sustainable future that will help uplift all our residents," said City Plan Director Laura Brown. "This honor is shared by the thousands of New Haven residents and stakeholders who participated in the planning process, ensuring that the plan reflected resident priorities and embedded the principles of equity and resilience across its recommendations and proposals."

According to the city, the association highlighted the plan's emphasis on inclusive growth, coastal resilience and outreach to people historically excluded from planning. Residents can read the adopted Vision 2034 plan as the city works to implement it.

Source: "CITY OF NEW HAVEN WINS NATIONAL PLANNING AWARD FOR VISION 2034, NEW HAVEN'S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OVER THE NEXT DECADE" (newhavenct.gov)