The Planning Academy is an opportunity to learn more about how the planning process works in Durham, how to use available planning tools, and how to equitably engage in planning work. We want to uplift learning and teaching with an emphasis on supporting marginalized communities. Whether you’re a resident, community leader, subject expert, young person, or someone who wants to learn more about Planning, the Planning Academy is for you! The sessions will provide tools and skills to help navigate the planning processes, learn more about development and how it is regulated in North Carolina, and further understand the history of planning in Durham. 

The spring 2024 academy will be hosted by Durham County Main Library who are partnering with the department to offer this community learning opportunity. The Planning Academy Application is now open and can be found here in English and here in Spanish. The application window is open until Friday, March 29. 

This academy will be held the weekend of May 10th and 11th at the Durham County Main Library (300 N. Roxboro St. Durham, NC 27701). The Friday session will run from 5:00-8:00PM (with dinner provided) and the Saturday session will run from 10AM-4:30PM (with a light breakfast, lunch, and snacks provided).  

The application includes the opportunity to request Spanish language interpretation, provide dietary restriction information, and request childcare services. These services will be provided at no cost to you, based on the needs indicated in applications for selected participants. 

Participants will be selected with a focus on bringing together a diversity of perspectives, identities, and lived experiences in the group to foster an environment of learning from each other as well as from staff and community leaders. This academy will accommodate approximately 50 participants and applicants who are selected to participate will be notified beginning on Monday, April 15.