An estimated 150 people joined the community conversation to create a shared vision for Arlington's master plan on Wednesday, Oct. 17, at Town Hall. The effort provides a basis for decision-making about the long-term physical development of a municipality.

The town is reaching out to members of the community to help shape goals and policies for the town's future.

Read an overview about this process here >>

Carol Kowalski, town planning director, told the Special Town Meeting on Oct. 10 that the last time Arlington pursued a similar process was in 1972, when the town rewrote its zoning laws, but the town not pursued modern master planning described in state law under Chapter 41.

In 2007, the Redevelopment Board and the selectmen engaged in a dialogue focused on Arlington's future. The effort included a series of opinions by the Kevin O'Brien, then the planning director, aimed at encouraging residents to look ahead:

Part 1: From Menotomy to modernity

Part 2: Arlington's identity: crisis or opportunity?

Part 3: March 21, 2027

Can we see beyond these views?

This story was first published July 16, 2012, and updated numerous times thereafter.