05/21/2026
The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission (LVPC) family is deeply saddened by the passing of our long-tenured Commissioner, mentor and friend, Dr. Percy H. Dougherty.
For over three decades, Percy was a foundational pillar of regional planning in the Lehigh Valley. Appointed to the LVPC in 1989, he brought an extraordinary blend of academic expertise as a geographer and deep civic devotion as a 28-year Lehigh County Commissioner. His unique perspective shaped the very landscape of Lehigh and Northampton counties.
Percy understood that true community planning requires looking far beyond the horizon. He was a tireless champion for smart growth, open space, and farmland preservation. Long before data-driven mapping became a standard tool, Percy was an early and passionate advocate for leveraging new technology, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), to guide thoughtful land-use planning. His legacy is etched into our hillsides, our protected farmlands, and our watershed resilience.
His impact was so profound that just late last year, the LVPC established the Dr. Percy H. Dougherty Award to recognize individuals who demonstrate outstanding commitment to planning and community development. It was our highest honor to present that inaugural award to Percy himself—celebrating the man whose vision inspired generations of planners.
"Percy didn’t just serve the Lehigh Valley; he helped map its future with unparalleled wisdom, kindness and determination," said Becky Bradley, LVPC Executive Director. "He made planning accessible, showing all of us how the choices we make today shape the region of tomorrow."
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the countless colleagues whose lives he touched. A life well lived and a legacy that will continue to shape the Valley for generations.
Video segment from LVPC's 2025 Gala.
