American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What does capital improvement programming primarily involve?

1. Multi-year scheduling of public improvements

2. Assessment of community needs for new facilities

3. Active engagement from local residents

4. Assessment of environmental impacts

The correct answer is: Multi-year scheduling of public improvements

Capital improvement programming primarily involves the multi-year scheduling of public improvements. This process is critical for local governments and planning agencies as it helps prioritize and plan for significant projects over several years. It ensures that resources are allocated effectively, timelines are set, and potential impacts on the budget are understood. By establishing a capital improvement program, municipalities can systematically address infrastructure needs, from roads and bridges to parks and public buildings. This approach not only allows for strategic financial planning but also helps in making informed decisions about when and where to allocate limited resources, ultimately leading to more efficient project implementation and improved community infrastructure. While assessing community needs, engaging local residents, and evaluating environmental impacts are important aspects of the planning process, they generally serve to inform the broader capital improvement program rather than define its primary function. Capital improvement programming specifically focuses on the structured timeline and financial aspects of public improvements.