At Better Neighbourhoods Inc., we believe the development of diverse, mixed-use, walkable, neighbourhoods is essential to increasing property value and fostering sustainability. This design approach provides landowners maximum return on investment, while benefitting the neighbourhood and local municipality. We assist our clients throughout the development process, working to develop neighbourhoods that are built for people—and not just their cars.
In short? Our focus is on designing places that people love.
And with over 45 years of experience in land development consulting, Better Neighbourhoods Inc. (formerly Barr Associates) has established excellent working relationships with local municipalities, architects, builders, and consulting firms in the Niagara Region and beyond.
Just don’t ask us to do sprawl.
Better Neighbourhoods has assembled a highly skilled and adaptable team with deep expertise in the development process. Our award-winning professionals are committed to continuous learning, ensuring clients benefit from the latest innovations and best practices in development and New Urbanism.
DANIEL ROMANKO
MCIP, RPP, CNU-A
Dan Romanko, Managing Partner with Better Neighbourhoods, is and a Professional Planner with more than 25 years of experience in urban design, planning and neighbourhood development across Ontario. His background spans consulting, sustainable infrastructure and the planning and design of communities at a range of scales.
Dan’s work is grounded in creating connected, walkable neighbourhoods that support long-term community sustainability. He is a member of the Canadian Institute of Planners and Ontario Professional Planners Institute, a CNU-A accredited member since 2009, and has been qualified as an expert witness at the Ontario Land Tribunal.
GLENN E. BARR
P.Eng, CNU-A
Glenn Barr, Senior Advisor, brings more than five decades of experience in urban design, municipal engineering and land development across Ontario. His career has included the planning and engineering of residential, commercial and industrial developments, as well as municipal infrastructure projects.
Glenn has a longstanding focus on Traditional Neighbourhood Design (TND), land development economics and creating walkable, connected communities. A CNU-A accredited member and advocate for Smart Growth, Glenn continues to provide insight and guidance on urban design and neighbourhood development.
Swati Chambyal
Project Manager & Urban Designer
Swati’s passion for architecture began at a young age, inspired by watching her childhood home transform from blueprints into reality. As she explored different places and cultures, her interest expanded beyond individual buildings to the broader urban fabric and the role thoughtful design plays in shaping everyday life.
With a strong commitment to urban design, Swati is passionate about creating spaces that are functional, inspiring, and sustainable. She believes well-designed neighbourhoods can strengthen communities, enhance quality of life, and create meaningful connections between people and place. Through her work at Better Neighbourhoods, she is driven by the opportunity to make a positive and lasting impact on the communities she helps shape.
Joseph Falzone
Project & Development Manager
Joseph Falzone is an Architectural BCIN Designer with a creative approach and a strong interest in all aspects of design and development. He began his career designing and building custom homes in Hamilton before expanding his experience through work in the public sector.
In 2024, Joseph joined Better Neighbourhoods, where he brings his expertise, creativity, and enthusiasm to projects focused on building stronger, more connected communities.
Shelwin
Mathew
Urban Design Technician
Originally from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, Shelwin brings a multidisciplinary design background to Better Neighbourhoods. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design and spent five years working as an Interior Designer before pursuing further studies in Urban Design at Sheridan College’s Hazel McCallion Campus in Mississauga.
His experience across interior and urban design has shaped his appreciation for how thoughtful design can positively influence the way people experience and connect with their surroundings. At Better Neighbourhoods, Shelwin is passionate about applying his skills and perspective to serve communities and contribute to the creation of meaningful, people-focused places.
