The business economist at work: an economist's work in a city planning department

Business Economics, April, 1993 by Philip Mayer

Policymakers in urban areas that are growing rapidly such as Atlanta are realizing the need to promote quality growth. Thus there will be an increased demand for city planners. To plan properly one needs quantitative information on the number of people, jobs, and housing coming into an area and the ability to use this information wisely. Those who are rigorously trained in quantitative skills such as economists have the skills and opportunity to increase their contribution to the city planning profession. Economists are sometimes accused (perhaps unfairly) of being narrowly trained. Planning is a generalist profession. Economics students interested in working on public policy issues and relating economics to other disciplines might want to consider becoming a planner.

Philip Mayer is senior planner/economist at the Cobb County, Georgia, Planning and Zoning Department.