Planning with Community in Mind

Before pursuing a Master of Planning, Rutvi Patel obtained an undergraduate degree in Architecture and worked for two years as a licensed Architect with renowned firms in India. “While design provided me a medium to make tangible impacts on a small scale, I found myself drawn to the intangible aspects of fostering healthy communities,” she said.

I am interested in planning because it is the primary face of the social structure, the backbone of a city's life, and the heart of sustainable communities. It holds the power to be the voice of the people over profit. Planning paves the way for a better tomorrow, creating spaces that nurture communities.

For her work term, Rutvi joined the City of Fredericton as an Assistant Planner in the Community Planning division.  She noted that the city is experiencing growth, and with it come challenges and opportunities. 

“To help manage this growth effectively, I was involved in developing the South Core Secondary Municipal Plan. This initiative focused on guiding Fredericton’s development towards a more urban, compact, and sustainable future, while preserving the characteristics of its neighbourhoods," she said. "My role included managing public engagement sessions to gather community insights.”

She said a key moment of her work term was presenting to the City Council and Planning Advisory Committee on a Temporary Land-Use Variance. “This experience highlighted the impact of plan amendments and effective communication to meet community needs.”

“This work term provided me with insights into municipal operations and instilled in me a deeper understanding of the sense of belonging that individuals feel within their communities,” she said. “As we shape our surroundings, they will interact and correspond to shape us as a community. My most significant takeaway has been the opportunity to draft policies and witness their implementation, a privilege that not many experience.” 

Rutvi’s supervisor, Marcello Battilana, Assistant Director, Planning and Development, said Rutvi had a strong desire to learn. "Her confidence and skill set showed great improvement,” he said. “She was ready to learn and was conscientious in her work. She was given many different tasks and completed them well with only minimal guidance.”

“The team was invaluable in helping me navigate the complexities of my role. They encouraged me to engage deeply with public engagement initiatives and facilitated my involvement in diverse tasks,” said Rutvi. “Reflecting on this journey, I am reminded of the quote, ‘Hardships carved me well, guided by a mentor whose wisdom shaped my path.’ This experience has been instrumental in my growth both professionally and personally.”

Rutvi is set to graduate with her Master of Planning in June.