Associate Project Manager, Planning

Sofia DiFrancesco is a Community Planning professional experienced in comprehensive planning, housing studies, zoning code analysis, community needs assessments, and environmental reviews. She is dedicated to fostering collaboration in the planning sector by championing private-public partnerships, advocating for asset-based community development, and prioritizing empathy-driven community engagement strategies. She believes that everyone deserves to have their voice heard and that equity should be a fundamental pillar in the planning process. She adopts a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, striving to effect positive impact in every community she engages with.

As part of her collaborative efforts at Hamilton County Planning & Development, Sofia played a pivotal role in researching and writing sections of a Housing Element Plan, taking into account 49 unique jurisdictions and their housing needs, finally prioritizing the lack of affordable housing. She not only identified best practices, but also formulated strategic recommendations for County officials that addressed the historic divestment of disproportionately impacted low-moderate income neighborhoods.

Backed by her academic background in Environmental Studies and her experience working for an environmental nonprofit, Sofia has a demonstrated passion for sustainability in the field of planning. From mapping flood impacts in urban neighborhoods. Furthermore, to exploring innovative strategies to promote walkable/bikeable neighborhoods, Sofia takes in the totality of a communities built environment and maximizes its long-term impact.

Professional Experience

• Hamilton County, Ohio - Associate Planner

• Planning & Development Services of Kenton County - Intern

• OKI Regional Council of Governments - Intern

Education

• University of Cincinnati

  • Master of Community Planning

• University of Cincinnati

  • B.S. Environmental Studies

  • B.S. Communications

Affiliations:

• Congress for the New Urbanism

• American Planning Association