WEST VALLEY CITY — A certified planner who has managed dozens of long-range projects in three states, including Utah, will head up the Jordan River Commission.
Laura Hanson was selected from among candidates based on a number of professional qualifications, including experience in redevelopment area planning, open space preservation and ordinance drafting. A press release on the announcement says Hanson is particularly experienced in managing efforts that tap diverse groups with vested interests.
Prior to her experience at CRSA, a local architecture firm, Hanson worked at Bear West Company, where she managed a number of National Environmental Policy Act analyses and planning studies.
Hanson has a bachelor's degree in urban planning and environmental studies, as well as a master's degree in urban planning from the University of Utah. She has received awards from the American Planning Association, Envision Utah and the Utah Quality Growth Commission.
Established in June of 2010, the Jordan River Commission was an outgrowth of an ambitious study done by Envision Utah, called "Blueprint Jordan River."
That study suggested the formation of such a commission — much like the Utah Lake Commission — to tackle the challenges faced by the river, including management of open space and improving water quality standards.