Associate Planner

Ashley Jankowski, AICP

Ashley Jankowski, AICP, is an Associate Planner who collaborates with diverse communities to achieve land use, housing, sustainability, and economic development goals through tailored planning and zoning initiatives.

Ashley is skilled in managing interdisciplinary projects that center community priorities and creatively reduce barriers to participation. An avid writer and listener, she incorporates storytelling throughout her planning work to build positive, place-based narratives that strengthen community identity.

Before becoming a planner, Ashley worked in environmental data management and sustainability strategy, helping cities and campuses respond to climate change with place-based solutions. She holds a Master of Urban and Regional Planning and a Master of Environment and Sustainability from the University of Michigan, as well as a dual Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies and Journalism from New York University.

Ashley is the lead writer of McKenna’s blog, Elevations. Her work has also appeared in the American Planning Association’s Zoning Practice and outlets including The Nature of Cities. Outside of McKenna, she continues to write as a freelance journalist.

Back to people

Good planning starts with good listening. Every community is home to deeply held stories, including narratives about the past, experiences of the present, and visions for the future. Effective planning ensures those stories are reflected in the places we help to shape. In my work, I aim to listen deeply, honor lived histories, and support communities in co-writing their next chapter.