“I am honored to serve as Director of the Planning and Development Department for the City of Phoenix,” said Bednarek. “I am excited to lead our incredible team in collaboration with our community to make Phoenix an even greater city.”
During his time with Planning and Development, Josh oversaw the creation of the City’s Transit-Oriented Development policy framework for expanding the light rail system and the related Walkable Urban Code, which supports pedestrian-friendly amenities, business opportunities and more diverse housing options. He oversaw the update of the City’s General Plan in 2015, and as Director will oversee the current process of the 2025 update to that plan that will go before voters in November of 2024.
Over the last five years, Josh has been promoted to Deputy Director and then Assistant Director within the department. During this time, Josh led the transition of Planning and Development’s public meetings and hearings to virtual formats. He and his team members updated several sections of the Zoning Ordinance including an expansion of the Walkable Urban Code, enhancements to landscape requirements to address the City’s tree and shade goals, and the allowance for interior suites with cooking facilities in new residential subdivisions.
Josh has a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Arizona and a Master’s Degree in Urban and Environmental Planning from Arizona State University.