Combined, these sets of powers could significantly erode the role of the city's land-use planners.

The Court recognized that its decision will "lessen to some extent the freedom and flexibility of land-use planners."

That's why land-use planners, environmentalists and others study the impact of roads.

Mr. Dorram, a Harvard-educated architect and land-use planner, immigrated here in the early 1950's after serving as a commando in the original Israeli army.

The case, decided in June, has some state and local land-use planners worried, but others say its impact on historic landmarks will likely be minimal.

His father retired as a land-use planner for the Willamette National Forest in Eugene.

The trend toward infill development is in part a product of the "smart growth" movement that has gained currency among land-use planners and environmentalists.

According to Robin Stein, Stamford's land-use planner, "there is a tremendous need for housing people who work in the corporations and want to live downtown."

"Still in the talking stage" is a fourth rental project that Stamford is promoting, said Mr. Stein, the land-use planner.

According to land-use planners, such communication is becoming more common for developers.