The Open Planning Project (TOPP) is an incubator for projects with enormous social impact. TOPP engages in strategic, tech-savvy interventions that transform the civic landscape.

Our open, collaborative approach is extremely impactful. We build robust software and advocacy communities that accomplish more than we ever could alone.

In this work, we leverage our expertise in technology development, media production, and urban policy.

Areas of Focus

Open Source for Government

With open technologies, governments everywhere can become radically more effective and save billions of dollars. Robust, interoperable information systems pave the way for open and successful decision-making.

  • TOPP's OpenGeo division builds open source software to help governments make their geospatial data more available and useful to the public.
  • Successful open source projects, like GeoServer and OpenLayers, free data and agencies to better serve the public interest.


Tools for Civic Empowerment

TOPP builds web-based tools that equip our initiatives, other civic efforts, and the public at large for maximum effectiveness. Our open source approach to software development amplifies and broadens our impact.

  • OpenPlans is a software toolbox for powering grassroots campaign websites.
  • Melkjug is an innovative newsfeed tool that makes it easier for engaged citizens to stay informed.
  • GothamSchools is an advocacy blog helping New Yorkers create better schools.


Transportation Reform

To ready for the challenges of the new century, cities around the world must redesign communities around public transportation and walkable, bikeable streets.

Working together, we can reverse decades of automobile-dominating urban planning and create healthier, more effective transportation systems.

The Livable Streets Campaign engages the public in shaping smart cities, via: