Dave Whitfield Joins R&M, Establishing Land Development Group

Dave Whitfield joined R&M as a Senior Planner in the firm’s newly established Land Development Group.

Dave brings more than 20 years of land use planning experience to R&M, most recently serving as the Planning and Zoning Manager and Platting Officer for the Municipality of Anchorage (MOA). His background includes expertise in land use planning, subdivision and platting, code analysis, private development, and code compliance and implementation for public and private sector projects. Dave also specializes in community and economic development through comprehensive review of local and regional projects, including site planning, subdivisions, conditional uses, variances and the dedication of public facilities such as new roadways. He is a regular presenter on development projects to agencies, community councils and stakeholder groups.

With Dave’s addition to the team — and his strong understanding of land use planning and development regulations — R&M now offers comprehensive Land Development services. The firm’s multi-discipline group collaborates closely with clients to bring land use visions to life, whether designing and surveying a new subdivision, navigating the regulatory process for a conditional use or rezone, or assisting communities in updating zoning and subdivision regulations. R&M’s expertise includes:

• Land use and zoning analysis
• Entitlement applications for conditional uses, variances, site plans, rezones and platting
• Subdivision design and survey
• Development feasibility studies and reports
• Zoning and platting code compliance
• Drafting zoning and land use regulations

As a key member of R&M’s Land Development Group, Dave serves as project manager and technical expert. He leads projects from concept through approval, coordinating with clients, agencies and internal teams to ensure timely and effective delivery. His responsibilities include preparing and managing entitlement applications, conducting zoning and land use analyses, drafting code language, and supporting subdivision and site design efforts. Dave also guides clients through complex regulatory processes and helps develop tailored solutions that meet both community goals and private development objectives.

“I wanted to work for R&M because they are a family-oriented firm that shares my values, is made up of talented industry professionals and provides professional services that benefit Alaska. I ultimately hope to add value to the firm. I’d love to continue to build on my experience in planning and development, foster professional relationships and help grow a service line. As someone who’s benefited from mentorship, I also look forward to mentoring young professionals.” – Dave Whitfield

Dave holds a B.S. in Geography from Southern Oregon University. He is a member of the American Planning Association and International Right of Way Association. Outside of work, Dave enjoys being active and spending time outdoors biking, camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, and running. On the weekends, you’ll most likely find him at the gym or cheering on the Oregon Ducks.

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Services Mentioned

Land Development

Planning