About the Metro Chapter

The American Planning Association's New York Metro Chapter addresses planning issues that concern the physical, social, and economic environment in the metropolitan region encompassing New York City, Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk Counties) and the Hudson Valley (Rockland, Westchester, Putnam, Orange, Dutchess, Ulster and Sullivan Counties). The Chapter represents some 1200 practicing planners and other people involved in the planning and design of the region's communities.

The Metro Chapter has an elected Executive Committee and close to 20 committees that focus on various areas of planning practice. These committees prepare position papers, hold discussion groups and sponsor special events. Housing, landmarks, urban design, social planning, transportation, waterfront and zoning are among the diverse planning areas represented by these committees. The Chapter also provides comments on major development proposals.

The Chapter regularly organizes programs for members and others who are interests in planning issues. These range from workshops on computer use in planning, community zoning classes, to student orientations and job fairs, to presentations on timely planning topics and tours. In addition, the metro chapter has been holding local conferences every year featuring, issues of concern in the metro region.

A monthly newsletter, MetroPlanner, keeps members informed of pertinent issues and upcoming events and provides a forum for open discussion. An annual report is issued each year by the president of the chapter informing the membership of the chapter activities.

The Chapter also conducts an awards program honoring excellence in local planning endeavors. This includes the Paul Davidoff award for leadership in housing and equal opportunity, and a Journalism Award, as well as other awards that recognize significant strides in the field including Meritorious Service and student awards.

The New York Metro Chapter provides many opportunities for planners and those interested in planning to network. Opportunities to meet in person include committee meetings, Chapter conferences and other sponsored events. More informal networking occurs at the Third Thursdays social hour, from 6-8pm at the Puck Fair Cafe, 298 Lafayette Street between Houston and Prince Streets in Manhattan.