David Whitley

SWMD Project Management Consultant | Principal, DRW Planning

David is the owner of a Dallas-based urban planning firm, DRW Planning Studio. He has a background in urban planning, urban design, public policy, and development-related disciplines. He has over 20 years of experience in developing long-range plans and urban design strategies; drafting code amendments; planning and implementing capital projects; and managing economic development tools.

In both the public and private sectors, David’s work advances innovative planning practices that improve the built environment; evaluates municipal policies and business processes through the lens of fostering more vibrant cities; and capitalizes on strategic opportunities to create unique and enduring places. His prior work includes leading an urban design studio for the City of Dallas and developing plans and ordinances throughout Oklahoma, Texas, and Louisiana. David’s practice has evolved to have an increasing emphasis on the connection between the built environment and human health, including managing capital improvements that address environmental conditions to improve both physical health and mental well-being in Dallas’ Southwestern Medical District, as well as policy guidance for healthy community planning in Louisiana through his affiliation with the Center for Planning Excellence in Baton Rouge.

David holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Regional Planning from Cornell University.