What Is a Master Plan?
A master plan is a plan that shows an overall development concept that includes urban design, landscaping, infrastructure, service provision, circulation, present and future land use and built form. It consists of three dimensional images, texts, diagrams, statistics, reports, maps and aerial photos that describe how a specific location will be developed. It provides a structured approach and creates a clear framework for developing an area.
An effective master plan describes and illustrates the proposed urban form in three dimensions, explains the method of developing a site and illustrates what delivery strategy to use to implement the project. Typically, a master plan addresses transportation and traffic, community facilities, neighborhoods and housing, parks and open space, land use and economic development.