Barbara Faga

Barbara Faga, Ph.D., is a Professor of Professional Practice in Urban Design at the Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, Rutgers University. She holds a Ph.D. from the Georgia Institute of Technology and has over 30 years of experience as an urban planner, author, and educator. Her career includes leadership roles at AECOM (formerly EDAW), where she served on the board of directors and as board chair from 1996–2005.

Research interests focus on participatory planning, urban design, zoning, and planning theory. She is recognized for advocating inclusive public engagement processes and has led high-profile projects in housing, community development, waterfronts, and public parks. Her work has garnered global awards, emphasizing socially impactful urban strategies.

Notable achievements include the Distinguished Alumni Award from Michigan State University, Fellow status in the American Landscape Architecture Association, and being named a top innovator in architecture by Design Intelligence (2007). She teaches graduate courses on urban planning and design, including zoning strategies, and is the author of pivotal texts like Designing Public Consensus, widely used in academic programs.