(Atlantic) The Southwest Iowa Planning Council (SWIPCO) has welcomed Noah Hirayama to its Community Development team as a Community Development Specialist I.
According to SWIPCO, Hirayama’s position will expand the agency’s ability to serve cities and counties throughout the region. His responsibilities will include assisting with grant applications and management for infrastructure and housing projects, hazard mitigation planning, city zoning, comprehensive and strategic planning, and regional transportation planning.
Originally from the Des Moines area, Hirayama recently graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Community and Regional Planning. He initially studied computer science before discovering an interest in city planning through video games focused on city development, including SimCity and Cities: Skylines.
Hirayama is also interested in maps and data analysis. His previous experience includes working as an IT Specialist with Amazon and completing internships involving GIS work at Paces, roadside development with the Iowa Department of Transportation, and planning with the Polk County Housing Trust Fund.
Hirayama said he was attracted to SWIPCO because the position offered experience in several areas of planning and the opportunity to work with multiple communities and counties.
He also has a strong interest in soccer and competed collegiately for one year at Central College.
Cities and counties interested in SWIPCO’s planning services can contact Hirayama or Planning Manager Dani Briggs at 712-243-4196.
