American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What was the significance of the 1925 Cincinnati Plan in city planning?

1. It was the first plan to include public transportation routes

2. It established zoning regulations based on individual property rights

3. It was the first comprehensive plan focusing on the welfare of the city as a whole

4. It marked the beginning of sustainable urban development

The correct answer is: It was the first comprehensive plan focusing on the welfare of the city as a whole

The 1925 Cincinnati Plan is recognized for being a pioneering comprehensive plan that focused on the welfare of the city as a whole, rather than just individual neighborhoods or sectors. This approach was significant because it emphasized creating an integrated strategy for urban development that considered various aspects such as land use, infrastructure, public services, and community needs. At the time, urban planning was evolving, and the Cincinnati Plan set a precedent for future comprehensive plans in other cities. It aimed to coordinate multiple elements of city life to enhance overall functionality and livability. This model encouraged planners to think in broader terms, facilitating a more cohesive vision for urban development that addressed issues of community well-being and sustainable growth. In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the main legacy of the Cincinnati Plan. Although transportation and zoning may have been considerations of various plans from that era, the Cincinnati Plan is particularly noted for its comprehensive approach to city planning as a whole. Its focus on the interconnectedness of city functions established a framework that would influence urban planning practices in the years to come.