Rachel Falkenstein

Mercyhurst University, Environmental Policy, BA

University of Virginia, Master of Urban & Environmental Planning

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Role:  Project Manager

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How they ended up here / Why Planning or Design

Rachel found her way to planning through trying to understand the places where she grew up and wondering why so many newer developments and suburban places seemed to discourage walking, biking, and a general sense of community. Witnessing firsthand how poor decisions degraded both communities and the natural environment led her to the field of community planning.

 

Prior to joining Line and Grade, Rachel served various positions for local governments working to help lay a foundation for people-centric placemaking in the communities she served. She brings implementation-focused approach to her projects and works to help communities to navigate the tricky mix of practical and political barriers that can stand in the way of creating great places.

 

Favorite part of their job

​Getting to know a new place and its people is Rachel's favorite part of her job. Each city, town, and county has a unique history, treasured places, and landmarks that define it. She loves teasing out these qualities, helping communities articulate a shared vision, and then developing tangible steps to achieve their goals.

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Other Interests

​Rachel enjoys spending time with her family and being outside in all kinds of ways including hiking, bicycling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and tinkering in the backyard garden.