American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What legislation was passed in 1954 that required cities to create comprehensive plans?

1. U.S. Housing Act of 1954

2. National Housing Act

3. Community Development Act

4. Urban Renewal Act

The correct answer is: U.S. Housing Act of 1954

The U.S. Housing Act of 1954 is significant because it included provisions that encouraged cities to develop comprehensive plans as part of a broader effort to address urban issues, such as housing shortages and the need for improved urban infrastructure. This legislation built upon earlier federal housing initiatives and aimed to promote coordinated community development. The act facilitated federal assistance for local planning efforts and emphasized the importance of comprehensive planning in shaping urban environments. By mandating that cities engage in comprehensive planning, the legislation aimed to address not only housing but also related issues such as transportation, economic development, and community services. This requirement marked a shift toward a more structured approach to urban planning, linking federal support with local planning processes. Other choices, although related to housing and community development, do not specifically mandate cities to create comprehensive plans in the same way as the U.S. Housing Act of 1954.