Greenville's Planning Team Guides Intentional Growth

Planning with Purpose

Greenville is growing — and City planners are working to ensure that growth supports the community’s long-term vision. During National Planning Month, City Manager Shannon Lavrin highlighted the team’s focus on intentional, sustainable development. 

In her 2026 State of the City address, Lavrin emphasized that growth must be actively managed: 

“The question is not whether growth will occur, but how we manage it. When approached thoughtfully, growth is how we remain sustainable, resilient, relevant and prepared for the opportunities and challenges of the future.” 

Managing that growth takes a multidisciplinary team focused on creating a sustainable city where future generations can thrive. 

Building a World-Class Planning Team 

The Planning and Development Department has expanded in recent years, reflecting City Council’s emphasis on quality growth and development.  The department invests in training and professional development through credentials such as American Institute of Certified Planners certification. The national designation recognizes planners who meet education and experience requirements, pass a comprehensive exam and commit to professional and ethical standards. 

Lavrin has held the certification since 2005. Eight of the department’s 18 employees across three divisions are also certified. 

In addition, the department includes several certified Landscape Architects as well as staff with training in historic preservation, architecture, code enforcement, GIS, and other skills that benefit the department and the community. 

That expertise helps turn long-term ideas into lasting public places. 

From Long-Term Ideas to Lasting Places 

Some Greenville projects take decades to move from concept to completion. Unity Park traces its roots to a 1907 proposal by the Municipal League of Greenville. Development in the future Falls Park Conference District appeared in plans as early as 1989 and again in 2018. 

Frixen said the conference district offers an opportunity to replace parking lots, vacant buildings and underused properties with a vibrant downtown destination that supports visitors and tourism. 

Small area and neighborhood plans also shape Greenville’s future. Recent examples include the Airport District Plan, Greenville Spartanburg Neighborhood Plan and Haynie-Sirrine Neighborhood Plan. 

The West End Small Area Plan, created in 2021, shows how sustained planning and resident input can drive revitalization. Developed through meetings with residents and community leaders, the plan influenced the city’s zoning map and help craft the Downtown Design Guidelines.