DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE

URBAN PLANNING 1
INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT
BY SOMUEL MERESA
ID NO 10608/11
- WHAT IS URBAN PLANNING

- CONCEPTS AND PRINCIPLES OF PLANNING

- ELEMENTS OF URBAN PLANNING

- LAND USE AND WHAT LAND USE INCLUDES

- FINDINGS OF THE SITE ANALYSIS AND PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT

Urban planning is a multidisciplinary field focused on designing,
developing, and managing the physical, social, economic, and
environmental aspects of urban areas.
It involves creating plans, policies, and strategies to guide the
growth and development of cities, towns, and other urban
settlements in a sustainable and equitable manner.
Urban planning is the practice of designing, regulating, and
shaping the development of urban areas to achieve specific
goals related to sustainability, livability, and functionality.
Urban planning aims to improve the quality of life for residents
by addressing various urban challenges and opportunities. These
challenges often include managing population growth,
accommodating diverse land uses, providing adequate
infrastructure and services, promoting economic development,
enhancing transportation systems, preserving natural
resources, and fostering social equity and inclusion

Urban planners work to address these various challenges to

improve the quality of life for residents and promote the overall
well-being of urban areas.
 CONCEPTS AND PRINCIPLES OF PLANNING
In urban planning, various key concepts guide the development and organization of urban areas
to ensure they are functional, sustainable, and livable. Here are the primary concepts of
planning in urban planning:
1-Zoning-dividing an urban area into zones where certain land uses
are permitted or prohibited.
Helps to manage land use and ensure that incompatible activities are
separated to minimize conflicts and maximize efficiency.
2-Landuse planning-the process of deciding the best uses for land
in different parts of an urban area.
Allocate spaces for residential, commercial, industrial, recreational,
and agricultural purposes.
3-Sustainability-promoting energy efficiency, reducing carbon
footprints, and integrating green spaces.

4-Mixed-Use Development-combining residential, commercial,

cultural, and institutional uses within a single area or building .
Encourages diverse, vibrant communities and reduces the need
for commuting.
5-Smart Growth-promotes sustainable urban development that
focuses on compact, transit-oriented, walkable, and bike-friendly
land use.
Aims to reduce urban sprawl, improve quality of life, and preserve
natural resources.
6-Connectivity-designing urban areas to facilitate easy
movement and access for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles.
Developing an efficient network of roads, pathways, and public
transit systems.
7-Green Infrastructure-Integrating natural elements into urban
areas including parks, green roofs, urban forests, and water
management systems that use natural processes to provide
environmental and social benefits.
8-Resilience-designing urban areas that can withstand and
recover from adverse events like natural disasters, economic
shifts, and climate change.
9-Human scale-buildings, streets, and public spaces are
proportionate and comfortable for people.
Height and density of buildings, street widths, and the availability
of public spaces.
 CONCEPTS AND PRINCIPLES OF PLANNING
Urban planning principles guide the development of cities and towns to create organized,
efficient, sustainable, and livable environments. Here are the key principles of planning in
urban planning:
Most of the principles of planning are the same as the concepts of planning and are listed
above. Here are some extras
Comprehensive Planning- Addressing all aspects of urban development, including
economic, social, environmental, and physical factors.
Equity and Inclusion-Ensuring that urban planning benefits all segments of the population,
particularly marginalized and vulnerable groups
Preservation and Conservation-Protecting historical, cultural, and natural resources
within urban areas.
 CONCEPTS AND PRINCIPLES OF PLANNING
Innovation and Flexibility- Embracing new technologies and innovative practices in urban
planning..
Efficient Land Use- Maximizing the efficient use of land to prevent sprawl, reduce
environmental impact, and promote sustainable urban development. This involves strategic
zoning, density regulations, and land use planning.
Safety and Security-Designing urban environments that are safe and secure for all
residents. This includes adequate lighting, safe public spaces, and measures to reduce crime
and enhance public safety.
Quality of Life-Enhancing the overall well-being of residents by providing access to essential
services, recreational areas, and cultural amenities.
Public Participation- Engaging community members in the planning process to reflect their
needs and preferences.
 ELEMENTS OF URBAN PLANNING
Urban planning involves several key elements that work together to create functional,
sustainable, and livable urban environments. Each element addresses specific aspects of
urban development, contributing to the overall coherence and efficiency of the urban area.
Here are the primary elements of urban planning:
1-Land Use Planning-
Zoning-Dividing land into zones for specific uses (residential,
commercial,industrial,agricultural, recreational) to prevent conflicts
and promote orderly development
Development Density-Regulating the density of development in
different areas to manage growth and preserve resources.
Urban Growth Boundaries-Defining limits to urban expansion to control
sprawl and protect surrounding rural and natural areas.
2-Transportation Planning
Road Networks-Designing street layouts that facilitate smooth
traffic flow and connectivity.
Public Transit-Developing efficient public transportation systems
(buses, trains, subways) to reduce reliance on cars and lower
traffic congestion.
Non-Motorized Transport-Planning for pedestrian and cycling
infrastructure to promote sustainable and healthy modes of
transportation..
3-Infrastructure Planning
Utilities-water supply, sewage, electricity, gas, and communications.
Stormwater Management-manage runoff and prevent flooding
Waste Management-Planning for effective collection, recycling, and
disposal of waste.
4-Housing and Community Development
Affordable Housing-Providing a range of housing options to cater to
different income levels.
Mixed-Use Development-Integrating residential, commercial, and
recreational spaces to create vibrant, diverse communities.
Community Facilities-services like schools, healthcare, and emergency
services.
5-Environmental Planning
Green Spaces-parks, gardens, and natural reserves to enhance the
urban environment and provide recreational opportunities.
Sustainable Practices-energy efficiency, renewable energy, and green
building practices to reduce environmental impact.
Climate Resilience-Planning for climate change adaptation and
mitigation measures.
6-Economic Development
Commercial Zones-Designating areas for businesses, shops, and
offices to support economic activity.
Industrial Areas-Allocating spaces for manufacturing and industrial
operations, often separated from residential zones.
Job Creation-Fostering conditions that attract businesses and
generate employment opportunities.
7-Social and Cultural Planning
Public Spaces-plazas, squares, and community centers for social
interaction and cultural activities.
Cultural Heritage-Preserving historical and cultural sites to maintain
the city's identity and heritage.
Inclusive Planning-consider the needs of all community members,
including marginalized and vulnerable groups.
8-Urban Design
Architectural Style-ensure aesthetic harmony and functionality.
Street Design-Creating streetscapes that are attractive, safe, and
conducive to walking and cycling.
Public Art-Incorporating art installations and cultural expressions into
the urban landscape.
9-Governance and Policy Framework
Regulatory Framework-Establishing laws, regulations, and policies that
guide urban development and ensure compliance with planning
objectives.
Community Engagement-Facilitating public participation in the planning
process to reflect community needs and preferences.
Planning Agencies-Settingup organizations and institutions responsible
for overseeing and implementing urban planning activities.
10-Safety and Security
Crime Prevention-Designing urban areas to enhance safety and reduce
crime through measures like improved lighting, surveillance, and
community policing.
Disaster Preparedness-Planning for emergency response and
recovery to protect residents and infrastructure from natural and
man-made disasters.
Public Art-Incorporating art installations and cultural expressions into
the urban landscape.
Each element of urban planning plays a crucial role in shaping cities that are well-
organized, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of their residents. By considering
these elements, urban planners can create environments that support economic growth,
social equity, environmental sustainability, and a high quality of life.
 LAND USE
Land use refers to the management and modification of natural
and built environments to guide the development and utilization
of land within urban areas. It involves the designation of
specific zones for different purposes, such as residential,
commercial, industrial, recreational, and agricultural, to ensure
that land is used efficiently and effectively. The primary goal of
land use planning is to create organized, functional, and
sustainable urban spaces that meet the needs of the population
while minimizing conflicts between different land uses.
 COMPENENTS OF LAND USE
1. Residential Land Use
Residential land use focuses on creating areas for people to
live. It encompasses a variety of housing types and support
services.
Components:
Single-Family Homes: Detached homes intended for one family.
Multi-Family Housing: Apartments, condominiums, townhouses, and duplexes that accommodate
multiple households.
Affordable Housing: Housing options that are financially accessible to families of all income level.
Senior and Assisted Living: Housing designed for elderly residents, including assisted living
facilities and retirement communities.
Student Housing: Residential facilities for students, often located near educational institutions.
Neighborhood Amenities: Parks, playgrounds, schools, and community centers that support the
residential community.
2. Commercial Land Use
Commercial land use is dedicated to business activities that
provide goods and services.

Components:
Retail Stores: Shops, malls, and boutiques where goods are sold.
Office Buildings: Spaces for businesses, corporate headquarters, and professional services.
Restaurants and Cafes: Dining establishments of various sizes and types.
Hotels and Hospitality: Lodging facilities including hotels, motels, and bed-and-breakfasts.
Service Providers: Businesses offering services such as banks, salons, and repair shops.
Entertainment Venues: Theaters, cinemas, nightclubs, and other places for entertainment and
leisure activities.
3. Mixed-Use Development
Mixed-use developments integrate residential, commercial, and
sometimes industrial uses within the same area to create
vibrant, walkable communities.
Components:
Residential Units: Apartments and condominiums integrated within commercial areas.
Retail and Commercial Spaces: Shops and offices located on the ground floors of residential
buildings.
Public Spaces: Parks, plazas, and community centers that encourage social interaction.
Transit Access: Easy access to public transportation to support the mixed-use nature.
Parking Facilities: Adequate parking for residents, workers, and visitors.
Community Services: Schools, libraries, healthcare facilities, and other essential services within
walking distance.
4. Open Space
Open spaces provide environmental, recreational, and
aesthetic benefits to urban areas.

Components:
Parks: Public green spaces for recreation and relaxation.
Natural Reserves: Areas preserved for their ecological value, including forests, wetlands, and
wildlife habitats.
Recreational Facilities: Sports fields, playgrounds, and trails for physical activities.
Green Belts: Areas of undeveloped, wild, or agricultural land surrounding urban areas to limit
sprawl.
Community Gardens: Spaces where residents can grow plants and vegetables.
Urban Plazas: Public squares and gathering spaces in city centers.
5. Infrastructure
Infrastructure refers to the fundamental facilities and systems
serving a city, essential for its functioning and growth.

Components:
Utilities: Systems for water supply, sewage treatment, electricity, gas, and telecommunications.
Roads and Highways: Networks for vehicular traffic including major roads, secondary streets,
and intersections.
Bridges and Tunnels: Structures enabling transport across natural barriers and underground
pathways.
Waste Management Systems: Facilities for garbage collection, recycling, and disposal.
Public Buildings: Government buildings, courthouses, and civic centers.
6. Transportation
Transportation planning involves developing systems for
moving people and goods efficiently.

Components:
Public Transit: Buses, trains, subways, trams, and ferries.
Road Network: Streets, avenues, and highways designed for vehicular travel.
Non-Motorized Transport: Infrastructure for walking and cycling, including sidewalks and bike
lanes.
Parking Facilities: Public and private parking lots and garages.
Transit Hubs: Centralized locations where different modes of transportation converge, such as
train stations and bus terminals.
Airports and Seaports: Facilities for air and sea travel and freight.
7. Social Services
Social services ensure the well-being and quality of life for
urban residents by providing essential support and resources.

Components:
Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers.
Educational Institutions: Schools, colleges, universities, and vocational training centers.
Emergency Services: Police stations, fire departments, and emergency medical services.
Social Welfare Services: Community centers, shelters, and support services for vulnerable
populations.
Cultural and Recreational Facilities: Libraries, museums, theaters, and sports complexes.
Government and Administrative Buildings: Local government offices, postal services, and
administrative centers.
F INDINGS OF THE SITE ANALYSIS
Some key architectural problems of Adigrat university related to urban planning include.
Inadequate Infrastructure Planning:
Haphazard Development: The expansion of the university may have occurred without
comprehensive urban planning, leading to inefficient use of space and resources.
Lack of Master Plan: Absence of a well-defined master plan for campus development can
result in poorly integrated facilities and fragmented growth.
Poor Infrastructure Quality:
Construction Standards: In conflict zones, construction often proceeds with limited oversight
and substandard materials, leading to buildings that may not meet safety and durability
standards.
Maintenance Issues: Ongoing conflict and economic constraints can lead to poor maintenance
of existing infrastructure, further degrading the quality of facilities.
Connectivity and Accessibility:
Transport Links: Inadequate transport infrastructure hampers accessibility to the university.
Poor road conditions and limited public transport options make it difficult for students and
staff to commute.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Infrastructure: Lack of proper sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and
bicycle lanes makes the campus less accessible and safe for non-motorized transportation.
Environmental and Sustainability Concerns:
Resource Management: Inefficient use of resources such as water and energy can strain
local supplies and increase operational costs.
Green Spaces: Limited integration of green spaces within the campus can affect the
environmental quality and the well-being of students and staff.
Safety and Security:
Emergency Preparedness: Insufficient planning for emergency situations, including natural
disasters and conflict-related incidents, can exacerbate the impact of such events.
Utility Infrastructure:
Water and Sanitation: Inconsistent water supply and inadequate sanitation facilities can pose
health risks and disrupt daily activities.
Electricity and Internet: Reliable electricity and internet connectivity are essential for
academic and administrative functions. Frequent disruptions can hinder these activities.
Housing and Accommodation:
Student Housing: Limited availability and poor quality of student housing can affect students'
living conditions and academic performance.
Staff Accommodation: Adequate housing for staff is crucial for attracting and retaining
qualified personnel.
Urban Integration:
Community Engagement: Poor integration with the surrounding urban environment can lead
to a disconnect between the university and the local community.
Shared Facilities: Opportunities for shared use of facilities, such as libraries and sports
complexes, with the local community may be underutilized.
PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
1. Infrastructure Standards:
• Corridor : Encompases all the utility needs of the urban area which are water supply
lines,sewage pipes , electric lines,telecommunication lines etc . In order to hold all this
corridors should range from 2 – 5 meters width.
•Green Infrastructure Features: rain gardens, bioswales,and pavements with dimensions ranging
from 1 to 5 meters wide and varying lengths .
•Storm water Detention Basins: stormwater detention basins ranging from 10 to 100
meters in diameter and depths of 1 to 5 meters to temporarily store stormwater runoff.
2. Building Design Standards:
•Floor Area Ratios (FAR): maximum allowable floor area ratios to regulate building density, shuold
be range from 0.5 to 5.0 depending on the zoning district and land use .
3. Land Use Standards:
•Zoning Regulations: Specify minimum and maximum block sizes for different land uses, such as
residential, commercial, and institutional, typically ranging from 200 square meters (for
individual residential plots) to several hectares (for institutional campuses).
•Building Height Limits: Set maximum building heights to control urban density and preserve
views and sunlight access,
From 8 meters for low-rise residential buildings to 30 meters or more for
high-rise structures.
•Setback Requirements: Distances between buildings and property lines for adequate open space
and safety, typically ranging from 3 to 10 meters depending on the building height and use.
•Green Space Provision: 10% to 30% of the total area should be green infrastructure.
4. Transportation Standards:
•Street: ranging from 6 to 20 meters for local roads and 20 to 40 meters for arterial roads and
boulevards. But can varry based on the anticipated traffic volume of transportation,
•Sidewalk : Provide sidewalks of sufficient width to accommodate, ranging from 1.5 to 3 meters
depending on pedestrian traffic and urban context to ensure pedestrians comfortably
•Bicycle Lane : with widths ranging from 1.5 to 2 meters to promote sustainability ensure safety
•Parking Stall Dimensions: dimensions of 2.5 meters wide and 5.5meters long for standard car
parking spaces and 3.0 meters wide and 6.0 meters long for accessible parking spaces.
5. Outdoor Space Standards:
•Public Plaza Sizes: Provide public plazas and gathering spaces to accommodate seating,
landscaping, and social activities.
•Recreational Field Dimensions: Design recreational fields and sports facilities with dimensions
that meet international standards, soccer field , basketball court.
•Pedestrian Pathway Widths: Create pedestrian pathways with widths ranging from 1.5 to 3
meters to ensure safe and comfortable movement for pedestrians, joggers, and cyclists.
N PROGRAMS STANDARD DIMENSIONS
O
1 Main Roads 20 - 40 meters wide with 2 - 3 meters side walkand gutter
width of 0.3 - 0.5 meters on each side
Pedestrian Walkways Walkways of1.5 - 3 meters width
Outdoor Spaces Plazas and courtyards ranging from100 - 1,000 square
meters with receational and sport fields
Setback Requirements 3 - 10 meters from property lines
For residential landuse
Utility Corridors 2 - 5 meters wide, varying depths
Stormwater Drainage Detention basins: Diameter 10 - 100 meters, depth 1 - 5
meters
Water Supply Lines Varies based on water demand and distribution system
Bioswales Width 1 - 5 meters
Seating Areas Appropriately sized, shaded, with tables and seating
N PROGRAMS STANDARD DIMENSIONS
O
Public Transportation Facilities Bus stops: Length 20 - 30 meters, transit stations: 50 - 100
square meters
Street Lighting Height 3 - 6 meters, spaced at intervals
Intersection Design Intersection Width: 10 to 15 meters per approach lane
Turning Radii: 7 to 15 meters, vehicle-dependent
Traffic Calming Measures Speed Humps: Length 3 to 6 meters, height 7 to 10 cm
Chicanes: Width reduction 1 to 2 meters, spaced
appropriately
THANK YOU.
SOMUEL MERESA
ID NO 10608/11