American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is commonly considered a core responsibility of urban planners?

1. Drafting legal documents for property disputes

2. Coordinating transportation and land use

3. Managing construction projects

4. Enforcing zoning laws

The correct answer is: Coordinating transportation and land use

Coordinating transportation and land use is widely recognized as a core responsibility of urban planners. This involves integrating different aspects of urban development to create cohesive plans that promote sustainable growth, efficient land use, and improved mobility. Urban planners must understand the relationship between land use patterns—such as residential, commercial, and industrial areas—and transportation systems, including roads, public transit, and pedestrian pathways. By effectively coordinating these elements, planners can help ensure that communities are designed to facilitate access to jobs, services, and amenities while minimizing traffic congestion and environmental impact. This strategic planning is integral to creating livable, functional urban environments that meet the needs of their inhabitants. The other options are important activities within the realm of urban development but do not capture the primary focus of urban planning. Drafting legal documents is more aligned with legal professionals, managing construction projects falls under the purview of construction managers, and enforcing zoning laws is typically a function of local government or zoning officials rather than the planners who develop the zoning strategies.