Using computer enhanced imagery to provide snapshots of the future. (page 3 of 3)

After the Florida Department of Transportation built a new interstate highway in Brandon, Florida, some development began to encroach into nearby farmland. Citizens were concerned about what was planned for this area, and a local newspaper commissioned Dover, Kohl to show future growth allowed under current zoning. The firm researched proposed street alignments and identified the kinds of buildings allowed under current statutes. From this research and projected growth estimates, Dover, Kohl & Partners produced a computer simulation of the site 20 years in the future.

When both pictures ran in the Sunday paper, citizens were motivated to contact their local planners and elected officials seeking an alternative development approach more consistent with the character of existing Florida towns and neighborhoods. Unfortunately, the public outcry was short-lived. Now, nearly a decade later, sprawl development similar to the pattern shown in the "after" picture has largely consumed the open lands shown in the "before" view.

Visualization tools can create an awareness of where a planning process may be headed, but citizens need to work diligently if they want to change the course of development in their community. Often, this includes drafting new ordinances aimed at fostering development models more consistent with citizen desires.

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