The historical figure honored for their work in urban planning and development is Jane Jacobs. An influential urbanist and activist, Jacobs is best known for her book "The Death and Life of Great American Cities," which critiques mid-20th-century urban planning practices. She advocated for mixed-use development and community-oriented city planning, emphasizing the role of local residents in shaping their neighborhoods. Jacobs' ideas transformed urban planning discourse by promoting vibrant, accessible public spaces, making her a pivotal figure in the quest for sustainable urban environments.