Maintaining a variety of affordable housing types is a critical component of long-range community viability. This session will equip planners and public leaders with strategies for determining the type and volume of housing that is most needed, by whom and where, within the context of shifting demographics. The presenters will review affordable housing needs assessments they conducted in Colorado Springs, CO, the State of Washington and Westmoreland County, PA, and explain the approaches that were most successful in translating measured housing needs into community goals with targeted, practical action steps.

Parks have become an unexpected driver of both tourism and urban transformation. Learn about new approaches to urban parks, from reusing industrial sites to rethinking design and function. Hear about unexpected uses, economic benefits, and enticing ways to attract people to parks. Where do parks fit into the work of the planning commission? Find out in a program designed for commissioners as well as planners.

Come join AHPNJ's Panel Discussion and hear the panelists share their perspectives on the municipal approvals process for affordable housing and it's importance in facilitating effective regulatory compliance.

The 65th NJ Downtown Institute to features Roger Brooks of Roger Brooks International (RBI) as he shares his high-energy, high-value expertise to take you through key strategies and tactics for building communities as destinations and then promoting them effectively. Using uncommon common sense and his ability to cut through the B.S. in our media- and marketing-saturated world Roger will leave you with great ideas that are both inspiring and actionable.