Walter C. Lane, AICP/PP, Director

The Office of Planning, Policy and Economic Development operates under the guidance of the Somerset County Planning Board, whose members are appointed by the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners.

• Responsible for land development review and the preparation of the Somerset County Master Plan and its various elements. 
• Oversees transportation projects, economic development, open space, farmland and historic preservation, wastewater management, and sustainability initiatives.
• Reviews and provides assistance and technical guidance regarding legislation, housing, demographics, mapping, and much more.

The Agriculture Development Board and the Cultural & Heritage Commission each function as separate entities, but report to the division.   Planning Division staff provides assistance to partnering entities such as the Regional Center Partnership and the Raritan Valley Rail Coalition.