In Memory of Ronald Nelson Short
We are saddened to announce the passing of Ronald Nelson Short, a dedicated professional who made significant contributions to urban planning and historical preservation. Ronald’s career in planning spanned decades, during which he played a pivotal role in shaping various communities.
Ronald’s work in the planning sector began with his involvement in Garden Grove, CA, where he worked as a planning intern while pursuing his degree. Throughout his career, Ronald was known for his ability to manage complex projects, including comprehensive plans and zoning ordinances, which have left lasting impacts on the communities he served. Notably, he developed the new area of White Rock, NM, in the 1960s, planning its neighborhoods, parks, and road systems, which are still in use today. Ronald held leadership roles in the following cities:
Colorado Springs, CO - Assistant Planning Director.
Los Alamos County, NM - Planning Director, where he developed the new area of White Rock.
Duncan, OK - Planning Director while attending the University of Oklahoma.
Lawrence, KS - Planning Director.
Centre Region, State College, PA - Regional Planning Director
Hillsborough County, FL (Tampa) - Executive Director of the Planning Commission.
Phoenix, AZ - Planning Director.
Chino Hills, CA - Community Development Director.
Albuquerque, NM - Planning Director.
Cave Creek, AZ - Planning Director.
Glendale, AZ - Deputy Director of Long-Range Planning.
In addition to his professional achievements, Ronald was an active member of the American Planning Association, where he contributed to the development and implementation of planning practices nationwide. His dedication to the profession was recognized by his peers, who valued his insights and leadership. Ronald was honored as a Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners (FAICP), the highest recognition in the field, as well, while at Phoenix, Ron ran for National President of the American Planning Association and was Arizona Planning Association President, reflecting his deep commitment to the profession. Ron was elected to the American Planning Association Board of Directors. He started a monthly lunch meeting of all planning directors in the Phoenix metro area. He lobbied and proposed having the national APA conference in Phoenix, but it did not happen until 2017. Other fun facts, Phoenix was engaged in developing a freeway through many neighborhoods and he worked on the implementation including a controversial art program for the freeway placing pots and other objects on and along the freeway walls. It was perhaps the first arts program in a freeway in America. At one point, Ron convinced a developer to use “frogs” as the theme where they installed three huge frogs in ponds and frog prints going to the ponds.
Beyond his professional career, Ronald was deeply involved with the Glendale Arizona Historical Society. As President, he dedicated himself to preserving and promoting local history. He wrote monthly newsletters and spearheaded the research and publication of historical articles. Ronald's efforts were instrumental in preserving historical landmarks and educating the community about their heritage, making a lasting impact on the preservation of Glendale's rich history.
Ronald's legacy in the planning community is marked by his innovative approaches and unwavering dedication to creating better urban environments. We invite those who knew Ronald to share their memories and celebrate his life and contributions to the field of urban planning.
Rest in peace, Ronald Nelson Short. Your work and passion for planning will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing you. A memorial service will be held at Historic Manistee Ranch on Saturday, June 15th, from 9 AM to 11 AM, at 5127 W Northern Ave, Glendale. The Glendale Arizona Historical Society kindly requests that attendees RSVP by emailing gahs73@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Glendale Arizona Historical Society.
-Scott Short (Ronald's son)