Plan Murphy is an update to a key long-range planning document for the City, the Murphy Master Plan, commonly known as a "Comprehensive Plan".

A. Comprehensive Plan

Broadly speaking, a comprehensive plan sets a Vision for the community for the next 15 to 20 years, establishes policies to manage growth and achieve the Vision - including for rezoning requests - and provides a framework for other plans, improvements, investments, and budgetary decisions.

Some key elements of a comprehensive plan include:

1. Conduct a thorough analysis of current and projected demographic, economic, and land use conditions in Murphy.
2. Engage with stakeholders, including city officials, residents, business owners, and community organizations, through public meetings, surveys, and workshops.
3. Develop a vision statement and long-term goals for the city based on community input.
4. Prepare a comprehensive land use plan that outlines future land use patterns, zoning recommendations, and transportation planning.
5. Identify and prioritize infrastructure and public facilities improvements.
6. Provide recommendations for sustainable and resilient development practices.
7. Create an implementation plan with specific action items and timelines.

We anticipate the process taking approximately 10 months, with the Master Plan being considered for adoption in spring of 2026.

The standard practice of cities is to review the plan approximately every three to five years. Tremendous growth since 2008 did not allow staff time to truly focus on a long-term review of the plan. Now that seventeen (17) years have passed, it is time to review the plan in preparation for Murphy's maturing as a "built-out" city.

Less that 100 acres of greenfield remain in the entire city. Redevelopment pressures are beginning to build as the region continues to see growth. The time is now to prepare for a vision for this new chapter in our city's history.

Everyone is! But more specifically, the City of Murphy has hired a planning, design, and engineering firm, LJA, to lead the Project. LJA's team is led by Project Manager Abra Nusser, AICP, who is an experienced, certified city planner. LJA has numerous leaders serving in roles on the team, such as infrastructure, design and landscape architecture, nature and drainage, community engagement, and many more.

The Deputy Project Manager is Tiffany McLeod, AICP, also an experienced, certified city planner.

Serving as leads on the City side are Reagan Rothenberger, AICP, Director of Community and Economic Development, and Morgan Barclay, Planning Administrator. Reagan and Morgan are coordinating closely with City Management, other City Staff, the City Council, and other Murphy boards and commissions.

Contact info is at the bottom of this page if you need it!