The Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD) invites Marion County residents to apply for the upcoming People's Planning Academy (PPA) cohort. The PPA provides participants with a foundational understanding of city planning and empowers them to take on a more active role in these processes.

The cohort aims to equip Marion County residents with the knowledge and confidence to engage meaningfully with DMD and participate in shaping the department's planning decisions across Indianapolis.

As part of the People's Planning Academy, participants will attend six in-person sessions every Wednesday from April 8 to May 13. Sessions will be from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the John H. Boner Center located 2236 E. 10th Street, 46201.

Cohort session topics include:Introductions and Community Engagement

Land Use and Zoning

Comprehensive Plan and Regional Center Guidelines

Petition Types and Requests

Development Review and Implementation

Planning in Action and Career Path

The cohort has a limited number of slots available for participants. Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Commitment and Readiness - Applicants must commit to attending and participating in all six sessions.
• Interest and Motivation - Applicants should articulate why they are interested in participating and how the hope to engage in city planning.
• Cohort Representation Consideration - DMD aims to engage populations who have been historically underrepresented in urban planning and ensure the cohort reflects the diversity of Indianapolis neighborhoods and lived experiences. Consideration includes geographical diversity within Marion County, representation of registered neighborhoods organizations, new participants, and community involvement.

PPA Registration opened March 2 and will close on Friday, March 13. Applications will be reviewed between March 16 and March 20 and applicants will be notified of a decision by March 23 at the earliest. Interested parties should submit an application using this link: PPA Application.