What is a Planned Community?

A planned community is a community or town that has been completely planned out from its beginning. These communities are sometimes referred to as Planned Unit Development or PUDs. Parcels of land within these developments are generally sold off by unit and are usually part of a Homeowners’ Association.

Plans for a planned community are completely mapped out before developers start any construction. Most of the time these developments are built on previously undeveloped land. When designing the plans for the development of a planned community, designers keep in mind the residents that will live there. These communities are sometimes developed for a specific population such as seniors or those that are concerned with protecting the environment.

Most of the time a planned community is designed to have a lot of public green space featuring parks, gardens, and trails for use of the residents. This dynamic appeals most people searching for a town and is beneficial to the environment if done correctly.

Planners of these PUD communities can offer residents a wide range of housing options that are coordinated to blend together well in the space and can offer some low income housing options. The potential for expansion in the future is something that is considered from the outset of planning.

All aspects of a successful community much be planned for and can include power, water, police, fire, schools, and anything else the citizens may need. Sometimes stores, banks, and restaurants are also part of the plan to ensure that residents will have access to everything they may need in the community.