American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

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Which tool is primarily used to assess the impact of new development on the surrounding community?

Site plan review
Impact fee analysis
Comprehensive plans
Environmental assessments

The correct answer is: Environmental assessments

The correct choice is based on the primary function of environmental assessments, which are specifically designed to evaluate the potential effects of proposed developments on the surrounding environment, including impacts on the community, natural resources, and overall public health. These assessments ensure that decision-makers consider potential negative consequences before a project is approved or built. They often require a thorough examination of factors such as air and water quality, noise levels, and ecological impacts, thus providing a comprehensive understanding of how development might affect local communities. While site plan reviews are also valuable in the planning process, they focus more on the specific layout and design of a project rather than a broader impact assessment. Impact fee analysis assesses the financial implications of a project but does not evaluate environmental or community effects. Comprehensive plans provide a long-term vision for community development but are not used as tools for direct impact assessment of specific projects. Therefore, environmental assessments serve as a crucial mechanism for understanding and mitigating the effects of new developments on existing communities.