Richard Frances (He/Him/His)

Affiliations: 

Principal, Estolano Advisors

What was childhood like for you from an urban planning and community development perspective?

I moved around a bit as a kid and didn’t really think too much about urban planning per se. I was more interested in architecture, buildings, and how they shaped the way we experience our cities. As a queer Black immigrant who grew up in largely white, suburban spaces, I think what I was searching for was a place that fostered a sense of belonging and openness. Having encountered a lot of systems of exclusion, it felt like the built environment offered an opportunity to physically manifest spaces that are welcoming to all, but especially those folks who might be considered outsiders.

What sparked your passion in the field of urban planning and community development?

I think a lot of my passion stemmed from seeing how vibrant and diverse large cities were. I spent a lot of time with family in Brooklyn growing up, and the mix of people, cultures, cuisines, public spaces, and opportunities for interaction always fascinated me. Having seen the varied ways that friends and family led their lives in New York established large urban centers as places of opportunity. During my studies, I was drawn to the field because you can mold your career to fit your interests. For me, that’s looking at how issues of mobility, economic development, and climate resilience intersect with equity.

How does that passion manifest in your current role?

I lead our firm’s mobility justice practice, so I’m fortunate to work at the intersection of transportation, land use, housing, economic development. I’m also fortunate to work at a place that firmly centers justice and equity in all of our work.

Where do you see opportunities in the field to move the needle towards a Beloved Community?

I think that this is a vision that many planners aspire to, but we tend to get bogged down in the day-to-day limits imposed by existing structures and systems. While I fully believe that planners need to be pragmatists and meet people where they are, we also need to challenge ourselves to go beyond the status quo in all aspects of our work. We need to critically ask: “Who is this approach/policy/plan/intervention working for right now? Why is that? Who’s being harmed or being exposed to risk? Is there a fairer way to distribute benefits, risks, and harms?”

What’s one piece of advice you would give to inspire, empower, and influence positive change?

(1) Lead with your ideals; (2) remember that everyone brings expertise to the table, so listen and be open to learning; and (3) remember that you’re part of a movement; appreciate the folks that paved the way for you and do your best to support those who will come after you