County Executive Bello Announces Public Review Of ‘Plan Forward’— County’s First Comprehensive Plan In 40 Years

May 19th, 2026

View Full Press Release (PDF)

Spanish Language Version (PDF)

Plan Forward Information Page

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello today announced the release of the public review draft of 'Plan Forward - A Comprehensive Plan for Monroe County,' marking the County's first comprehensive plan update in more than four decades. Residents, business owners, and community partners are invited to review the draft and provide feedback to help shape the future of the County.

Plan Forward establishes a long-term vision for Monroe County, with recommendations to guide growth, land use, infrastructure investment, economic development, environmental stewardship, housing, and transportation. The draft reflects an extensive public engagement process that began in August 2021, including more than 50 pop-up meetings, six steering committee meetings, and numerous stakeholder and municipal focus groups, receiving hundreds of comments from the public and community partners.

"Plan Forward is a roadmap for our future, built on the voices of our residents," said County Executive Bello. "After 40 years, it is critical that we align our investments in infrastructure, housing, and economic development with a modern, shared vision that serves everyone in Monroe County. I encourage all residents to take part in this final review phase."

The Public Review Draft is available for viewing online at MonroeCounty.gov/PlanForward. Printed copies are also available for in-person review at Central Library of Rochester & Monroe County, 115 South Ave, and the Monroe County Department of Planning and Development, CityPlace, 50 West Main Street.

Monroe County will host both in-person and virtual meetings for the community to learn more and share feedback directly with the project team.

An in-person meeting will be held Wednesday, June 3 from 6 PM to 7:30 PM at MCC Brighton Campus, R. Thomas Flynn Campus Center.

A virtual public information meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 10 from noon to 1 p.m. Registration and more details are available at Monroecounty.gov/PlanForward-events.

Language translation, American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation, and other accessibility accommodations are available upon request. To request accommodations, please contact Yixuan Lin, at 585-753-2026 or [email protected], at least 3 business days in advance.

The public comment period is open through June 18, 2026. Feedback can be submitted via:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 585-753-2000
• In person: Attend a public meeting

For more information, visit: MonroeCounty.gov/PlanForward