Creating a Place

PPS assists developers and municipalities all over the country in planning new developments. Our mission is to ensure that new mixed-use communities, town centers and infill development – and especially their public spaces – are planned and designed in such a way that they:

  • Begin with the public spaces as the framework around which housing, retail and commercial buildings are planned and designed.
  • Build a strong sense of community for residents and workers, by creating social gathering places, developing a sense of stewardship and providing places for community events.
  • Reflect a consensus among the development team, the existing community and the public sector regarding public space goals and management strategies.
  • Provide a sense of place and a variety of destinations: The Power of Ten.
  • Offer a wide-range of uses and activities so that they are vibrant and well-used during all seasons, and serve a variety of people of all ages, races and economic levels.
  • Support transit options and smart growth principles.
  • Are well-integrated into existing communities or surrounding areas.
  • Are well-managed and programmed and take advantage of public-private partnerships in their operation.