Cal Poly Plan for Templeton Development Wins Award From American Planning Association

SAN LUIS OBISPO – A comprehensive long-term development plan for the town of Templeton put together by Cal Poly City and Regional Planning students has received a top award from the California Chapter American Planning Association.

The students' plan received the Award of Excellence in the Academic Award category from the Association during its annual conference in Garden Grove Oct. 22-25.

“Templeton 2030 Community Plan” and “Templeton Downtown Vision” were developed by fourth year Community Planning Lab students and second year Urban Design Studio II students. The project exposed the students to state-of-the-art methods, technology, and techniques used in “real-world” planning situations.

An APA juror described the project as, “very professional. This is incredible work done in two quarters. The professor is training the future planners of California with a real-world project; I want those students to work for me."

The project addresses a multitude of planning issues and principles including case study research; analysis of the natural and built environments; examination of demographic and housing data; economic development; public involvement; development of community vision and goals; creation of land use and design concepts and implementation.

The proposed Community Plan and Downtown Vision also reflect class research, community participation, County Area Plan goals and objectives, and the application of “Smart Growth” principles to future development in Templeton.

Like many growing communities, Templeton is faced with making a choice regarding its future direction of growth. The project provides a long-range vision that incorporates the principles of “smart growth” to create a more self-sufficient and sustainable community with a vibrant downtown core, according to the students who developed the project.

Templeton, an unincorporated community of 7,800 residents, is currently the second fastest growing community in the county.

###