Matt Ashby, AICP CUD, has been promoted to manager of the western operations of Ayres’ Development Services Division. Ashby manages Ayres’ planning, landscape architecture, and environmental efforts in the West and provides planning services on projects nationwide. Ashby’s urban planning expertise complements Ayres’ engineering, architectural, geospatial, and environmental services to the great benefit of our clients. He is based in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Nearing 20 years of diverse experience, Ashby served for seven years as the City of Cheyenne’s planning director, using his local roots and persistent drive to see projects through to successful implementation. His enthusiasm for vibrant community development sharpens the focus of Ayres’ work on brownfield redevelopment, transportation planning, urban park and recreation planning, and landscape architecture.

Ashby’s eye for innovation has been recognized by his peers, with project accolades including the American Planning Association’s Daniel Burnham Award – the highest award given for a comprehensive plan. In 2020 his team was recognized with the Governor’s Award for Best of Place for the Windsor Mill project in Windsor, Colorado. As contract staff, Ashby leads a team that manages the Downtown Development Authority in Windsor.

Ashby has demonstrated success in leveraging grant funding to build vision and motivate investment, as evidenced in the West Edge brownfields revitalization project in Cheyenne. To date, the project has attracted over $100 million in reinvestment in this emerging district that is driving the rebirth of downtown Cheyenne. Ashby is a recognized expert in downtown development, having spoken on redevelopment topics at state, regional, and national conferences. He’s completed extensive work for the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, providing strategic planning as well as the notable Pickaxe Project, which has generated communications strategies for two dozen Colorado Main Street communities.

“It’s hard to imagine Matt ever stops thinking about how he can help communities and developers to position their projects for the success they’re dreaming of,” says Scott Wilson, PSS, vice president. “We look forward to Ashby spreading this passion throughout our western operations.”

When asked what he’s most excited about, Ashby notes that the diverse blend of services Ayres offers is a game-changer. “Our team is able to integrate several disciplines to create handcrafted solutions for our clients, tackling projects that others steer clear of,” Ashby says. “Blending the insights and inspiration of the best professionals helps us partner with clients from concept to construction.”

Educated at the University of Colorado, Ashby holds dual master’s degrees in urban design and urban and regional planning, as well as planning and urban design certifications from the American Institute of Certified Planners. Ashby values volunteerism; he serves on the Wyoming Main Street Advisory Board and is an emeritus member of the Western Planning Resources Board of Directors.