EDR led the Town of Dryden through a transformative update of its 2005 Comprehensive Plan, culminating in adopting Dryden2045. Facing mounting development pressure, aging infrastructure, and growing concerns around climate resilience, the Town needed a forward-thinking strategy to guide sustainable growth while preserving its rural character. EDR partnered closely with the Town’s Steering Committee to design and execute a robust public engagement program—pivoting creatively during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure inclusive participation through virtual workshops, surveys, and digital outreach. The Firm’s interdisciplinary team conducted extensive data analysis, facilitated stakeholder interviews, and synthesized community input into a visionary plan that integrates housing affordability, transportation, open space preservation, and climate action. Notably, EDR developed Dryden’s first Climate Action Plan, positioning the Town as a regional leader in sustainability. The result is a community-driven roadmap that balances growth with environmental stewardship, supports nodal development, and enhances quality of life. Dryden2045 reflects EDR’s commitment to creating better environments for clients and communities—empowering Dryden to thrive through 2045 and beyond.
“The main thing we were looking for when hiring EDR was a company that had deep experience doing comprehensive plans for communities. We were also looking for a company that made it clear to us that it was important to do a real comprehensive community outreach process – go out and get information from our residents on what they would like to have in their plan…EDR firmly believes that a comprehensive plan needs to reflect the vision and desires of the people who live in the town, and we certainly agree with that.”
– John Kiefer, Dryden Town Planning Board Chair
Town of Dryden 2045 Plan (PDF)
*NYS Upstate Chapter American Planning Association Comprehensive Planning Award