What we do

 

We help you achieve urban planning and real estate development goals.

 

We provide data-driven analysis, expert advice, and clear communication.

 

We excel at blending technical expertise with practical and political insight to arrive at unconventional solutions.

 

Founder and President

 
 

Michael Hansen

Michael Hansen has more than 15 years of land use planning experience in wide-ranging and high-level roles. Prior to founding City Forward, he was a principal advisor on planning and development issues in San Diego to Mayor Todd Gloria and Mayor Kevin Faulconer. He has served as Planning Director for the City of San Diego and a land use attorney at an international law firm.

He has a demonstrated track record as a successful project manager, negotiator, and coalition builder representing both the public and private sectors in complex and politically-sensitive development projects and planning initiatives.

 

With his legal, policy, and management background, Michael brings a unique perspective to planning and development issues. He has a particular expertise in overcoming obstacles, managing multilayered projects, deciphering development regulations, and identifying risks and opportunities.

He consistently finds creative solutions, builds consensus among diverging interests, and leads project teams to success.

 
 

Michael Hansen's experience spans comprehensive planning and policy development to representing applicants through the land use entitlement process.

 

HIS WORK ON MAJOR PROJECTS INCLUDES:

 

  • Complete Communities

    Created innovative incentive program to build more homes near transit and provide more places to walk, bike, and enjoy the city.

  • Community Plans

    Completed five community plan updates and two specific plans in Midway, Mission Valley, Kearny Mesa, Barrio Logan, Old Town, Morena Corridor, and Balboa Station Area (Pacific Beach).

  • SDSU Mission Valley

    Completed one of San Diego's most complex planning efforts and transactions to support a new stadium, university expansion, and mixed-use neighborhood.

  • Horton Plaza Redevelopment

    Secured approval for one of nation's largest adaptive reuse projects to ensure continued vibrancy in Downtown San Diego.

  • Housing Incentive Programs

    Developed new mixed-use zones and effective new programs for micro-units, affordable housing density bonus, and accessory dwelling units.

 

Michael Hansen is deeply involved in the community and serves on the boards of local organizations, including Circulate San Diego and the Urban Land Institute Small Scale Infill Development Council.

He holds a Juris Doctor from Northwestern University School of Law and a B.A from UCLA in Political Science and History. He is also a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners and a licensed California Real Estate Broker.

Michael grew up in Southern California and spends his downtime with friends and family enjoying the region. He likes to relax in the Palm Springs desert, explore Baja California, play tennis, ski and snowboard, listen to music, work on home projects, wander through museums, travel abroad, and experience other urban environments.
He has lived in Barcelona, Buenos Aires, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco, and is always at home in San Diego.