Master Development Plans (MDPs) are detailed guides for transforming land into fully integrated communities, outlining everything from roads and utilities to parks and homes. Megan Spencer, a designer in the Land Planning department at FOCUS Engineering & Surveying, explains how FOCUS approaches the process of creating MDP. The Land Planning team balances client needs, city regulations, and community feedback to ensure the development’s long-term success.

“We help bridge the gap between developers and the city,” Megan says, explaining her team’s role in the MDP process. “We create a plan that communicates all the project information in a digestible and visually appealing way for both the city and residents. This allows people to easily see the developer’s vision and provide feedback. Ultimately, the document becomes the legal and design basis for how the development will be built.”

Streamlined Success at FOCUS

A successful MDP requires clear communication, effective coordination, and stakeholder engagement. Coordination across multiple teams is crucial for creating a cohesive and functional plan. With so many services under one roof, FOCUS creates a streamlined and user-friendly process for clients because they don’t have to coordinate with separate groups. “FOCUS has so much to offer when it comes to master development plans because we have so many departments in-house,” says Megan, “We can handle the landscape section of the MDP, manage the transportation section, take care of utilities, and handle survey and legal descriptions. We know how to work together and make it happen at FOCUS.”

Engaging with a variety of stakeholders, including city officials, residents, and special interest groups, helps FOCUS ensure the plan reflects the community’s needs and concerns. Megan explains, “The visual aspect of an MDP is essential, as it helps convey the layout and design of the development in an accessible way, making it easier for stakeholders to understand.” Technology, such as rendering software like Lumion, helps FOCUS create high-quality visualizations of developments. These tools allow clients and cities to better understand how the project will look and feel, aiding in communication and approval processes.

Community Fit

“Oftentimes, we’re effectively doubling the size of an entire city, which is incredible when you think about it. Because of this, there’s a strong desire to create a distinct identity for the development. The goal is to foster a sense of place and community that’s vibrant and exciting. One way we contribute to this is by collaborating on the creation of a logo and unique signage that aids in wayfinding and placemaking throughout the development. This approach also carries over into the Master Development Plan, ensuring that it stands out and doesn’t look like any other plan you’ve seen before.”

FOCUS is constantly considering the impact of developments, with community fit heavily influencing every step of the process. “By allowing the place itself to dictate the design and highlighting what is unique about both the location and the environment, we avoid simply inserting something random or standard. We want to embrace the sense of place in each project.”

While MDPs were once primarily technical documents, they are increasingly used as marketing tools to showcase the development’s potential. Today’s MDPs highlight not only legal requirements but also the unique identity of the community, showing how it will improve the quality of life for residents. By leveraging technology and coordinating with various stakeholders, FOCUS ensures that each Master Development Plan is both a practical tool and a vision for the future of the community.

To partner with FOCUS Engineering & Surveying, contact our team at info@focus-es.com or (801) 352-0075.