ALLIED CIVIC GROUP 293

only correlates engineering problems and traffic projections that direct
highway design and placement, but is involved with the total con-
struction process including the manufacture of essential materials.
This exemplifies the scope of scientific planning which integrates di-
versified factors ranging from the integrity of design to the accelera-
tion of implementation.

Present planning is too often divorced from the implementation
process, the reality which disciplines and often dictates possibilities.
If the first element of planning is the introduction of scientific meth-
ods, the second element is to relate the planning process with imple-
mentation. Only in this way can planning become a vital rather than
a passive force.

Vastly improved communication and coordination are essential to
achieve this objective. Federal, State and local planners must develop
far more effective channels of communication. Planners, builders,
developers, architects and engineers should meet frequently on a re-
gional basis to assess, criticize and stimulate improvements of existing
methods. This correlation of professional disciplines is essential to
coordinate and expedite the realization of tangible projects.

The need can be clearly demonstrated in Montgomery County where
the extension of the North Central Freeway may be seriously delayed
by a conflict between the Federal and State authorities. Federal high-
way planners favor an economical route that would penetrate existing
neighborhoods and internal Takoma Park. The State Roads Commis-
sion advocates a route following the railroad tracks which would
neither disrupt the existing residential pattern nor contribute ad-
ditional traffic congestion to Takoma Park. Obviously, communication
is absolutely necessary and the mutual acceptance of a constructive
design policy is essential.

Similar conflicts delayed progress on the interstate system in Balti-
more City for several years. First, planners and elected officials re-
jected several routes which they feared would injure the city. Later,
the development of a misunderstanding over the roles and respon-
sibilities of the architects and engineers in the design of the City ex-
pressway system contributed to further delay. However, through pa-
tience and continuous communication, the dispute has been satis-
factorily resolved and the ultimate road network will benefit from
cooperation and from coordination of the best of all professional
opinions.

The final element of the planning process is its unique capacity to
be an adjustable instrument which can balance and assimilate short