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How 7 US Cities Successfully Implemented Incremental Zoning Changes Since 2020

How 7 US Cities Successfully Implemented Incremental Zoning Changes Since 2020 - Portland Removes Parking Requirements Near Transit Stops December 2023

In late 2023, Portland took a major step toward reshaping its urban landscape by eliminating mandatory parking minimums for new construction near transit hubs. This decision was in line with recently adopted statewide rules and signifies a fundamental change in how the city approaches urban planning, aiming to promote denser housing options and unlock more land for development. The adjustments weren't limited to simply removing parking requirements; they also included altering maximum parking allowances and setting new development standards for surface parking lots, demonstrating a flexible approach to planning. Oregon has emerged as a pioneer in parking reform, and Portland's actions could inspire other cities to adopt similar policies. The hope is that these changes will encourage more sustainable development practices while bolstering economic activity, making this a noteworthy example of incremental zoning changes that could reshape how American cities evolve.

In late 2023, Portland adopted a significant change to its zoning rules by eliminating parking minimums near transit stations, following a statewide mandate. This action, part of the Parking Compliance Amendments Project (PCAP), aimed to not only remove parking minimums but also adjust maximums and introduce new development guidelines for surface parking. Oregon has been a trailblazer in parking reform, encouraging other cities to adopt similar measures to boost affordable housing and denser urban development.

This change was a massive rollback of parking rules, the largest in recent US history, driven by a state administrative decision. The idea was to free up land for businesses and new development by removing the pressure to include extensive parking. Portland hopes to encourage more flexibility and adaptability in land use through this change, fostering economic growth. It reflects a broader trend across the US since 2020 where cities have embraced incremental zoning changes for promoting sustainable urban design. As part of the reforms, cities are now required to report on the pricing of on-street parking and implement some level of paid parking.

The changes suggest a potential shift in urban planning and transportation strategies in Oregon, which could influence other cities across the nation. It will be interesting to see how the reduction of parking near transit impacts ridership, traffic flow, and land use patterns in Portland's urban fabric. While the motivation is understandable, there are various ways this could play out. For instance, how effective will it be in driving people towards public transit? Will it create unintended negative consequences? Only time will tell how this major change shapes Portland and perhaps serve as an example, or cautionary tale, for other urban areas.

How 7 US Cities Successfully Implemented Incremental Zoning Changes Since 2020 - Minneapolis Extends ADU Permits To All Single Family Zones March 2023

In March 2023, Minneapolis broadened its housing options by allowing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in all single-family zones. This decision was in line with the Minneapolis 2040 Plan's goal of expanding housing choices and density. Prior to this change, ADUs were only permitted on properties where the owner lived, restricting their potential to increase the housing supply. This update attempts to address the ongoing housing affordability struggles within the city by encouraging more diverse housing options. While cities like Seattle have seen a rapid increase in ADUs, Minneapolis has experienced slower growth despite having ADU rules in place for almost a decade.

This change is part of a larger movement within the city to change how land is used in residential areas. It's now also easier to build duplexes and triplexes on lots previously only permitted for single-family homes. While it is intended to improve housing diversity, it remains to be seen if this will significantly increase the number of ADUs built in Minneapolis. There's a clear need for more diverse housing and this policy aims to contribute to that, though the ultimate impact remains uncertain.

In March 2023, Minneapolis revised its zoning code to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in all single-family residential zones. This change, aligned with the Minneapolis 2040 Plan, aimed to offer more housing options and was a notable shift from the city's previous restrictions that only permitted ADUs on homesteaded properties since their legalization in 2014. While this aligns with a broader trend in urban planning to promote housing affordability and diversity, its impact on the city remains to be seen.

The change reflects the growing realization that traditional single-family zoning can hinder the creation of diverse and affordable housing options in a region facing pressures from both population growth and the need for more flexible housing arrangements. It's interesting to note that despite other cities like Seattle seeing a substantial increase in ADU construction, the Twin Cities has shown limited growth despite similar ordinances. This raises questions about the extent to which the Minneapolis policy change will lead to an ADU construction boom and the associated infrastructure impacts.

One could anticipate a potential rise in ADUs in response to the policy, though the actual outcome is still uncertain. The Metropolitan Council's work around affordable housing has likely contributed to this shift in policy, highlighting the pressure on the region to address housing needs. The city's approach to implementing the change includes design standards and resources to aid homeowners, indicating an attempt to both foster growth and maintain neighborhood character.

The new zoning flexibility, however, also extends beyond ADUs. Minneapolis has allowed the construction of duplexes and triplexes on residential lots as well, a further step in enhancing density and housing variety. The impact of these combined changes, while potentially helpful, might result in some local controversy as residents adapt to potentially altered neighborhood dynamics. Increased traffic, parking demand, and modifications to local infrastructure could present challenges.

While only a few hundred ADUs existed prior to the change, the potential impacts on housing, and potentially traffic, parking, and neighborhood dynamics, will be interesting to monitor. The Minneapolis case offers an instructive example of how zoning adjustments can address housing needs and potentially impact urban form. The hope is that, as observed in some other cities, this will lead to more housing options and offer a potential alternative to urban sprawl. Yet, the success of the policy and its broader effects remain to be observed over the coming years.

How 7 US Cities Successfully Implemented Incremental Zoning Changes Since 2020 - Charlotte Allows Quadplexes In Former Single Family Districts October 2022

In October 2022, Charlotte, North Carolina, made a significant change to its zoning rules, allowing the construction of quadplexes in neighborhoods previously zoned exclusively for single-family homes. This shift, formalized in the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) that took effect in June 2023, is part of an effort to address Charlotte's housing affordability challenges. The UDO permits the construction of duplexes, triplexes, and quadplexes in various residential areas, aiming to increase the overall housing supply by offering more housing options at potentially varying price points. While the city supports developers who incorporate affordable units in these new projects, particularly on main streets, the change has also sparked concerns about the potential for neighborhood changes, including the risk of gentrification, as denser housing becomes an option. This shift marks a departure from Charlotte's historically restrictive single-family zoning and aligns with a wider movement towards more inclusive housing policies, yet there's a recognition that simply allowing multifamily housing is unlikely to solve all the complexities surrounding housing access and affordability.

In the fall of 2022, Charlotte, North Carolina, took a notable step by incorporating quadplexes into previously single-family residential areas. This change reflects a growing understanding that traditional zoning restrictions, which often favor low-density housing, are no longer adequately addressing the city's housing challenges amid rapid growth. It signifies a shift from rigid zoning to a more flexible approach to development in the face of population increases.

This new policy allows for the construction of up to four housing units on single lots, aiming to increase the overall housing supply. This is based on the premise that promoting a greater variety of housing types can help reduce the housing shortages that Charlotte and many other cities are experiencing. Research suggests that increasing housing options within communities helps maintain a balance in terms of socioeconomic groups and potentially reduces displacement of low-income households.

The Charlotte City Council's decision was influenced by the city's recent rapid growth – population has climbed by over 20% since the last census. City officials were likely seeking innovative ways to tackle the resulting pressures on the housing market. Concerns have been raised that this change might lead to the alteration of neighborhood character in established communities. Some might argue that increased density can lead to disruptions. On the other hand, there is an argument to be made that varied housing options can help improve community interactions by fostering a more diverse living environment.

This type of zoning shift mirrors trends seen in other large American cities such as Los Angeles and San Diego that have begun relaxing their restrictive zoning practices to allow for more multi-family housing in previously low-density neighborhoods. One could also anticipate a potential for reduced housing costs as increased competition among builders in the marketplace could become a stabilizing factor over time.

One of the key issues raised by this change relates to infrastructure and resources. Increased housing density, in its various forms, puts a strain on a city's transportation network, parks and green spaces, public services, and utility systems. City planners must now confront how existing infrastructure capacity can manage this increased density and how the city can best plan for the future in a way that avoids negative externalities.

Charlotte's action reflects a broader, evolving trend in urban planning philosophy, moving away from the rigid approaches of the past towards a more pragmatic and dynamic approach to the housing market. The effectiveness of this policy in Charlotte's case will likely require careful monitoring over time. City planners and researchers need to assess how established communities handle this change and determine if this change delivers the expected increase in housing options without significant unintended negative consequences on community cohesiveness or quality of life.

How 7 US Cities Successfully Implemented Incremental Zoning Changes Since 2020 - Sacramento Streamlines Missing Middle Housing Permits July 2022

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Sacramento took a significant step in July 2022 by enacting an interim ordinance that allows for "Missing Middle Housing" in all residential areas, making it the first California city to do so. Missing Middle Housing includes a variety of housing types, from duplexes and triplexes to fourplexes and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), all intended to introduce more housing options and potentially improve affordability in neighborhoods that were previously limited to single-family homes. This ordinance, informed by a design study, is considered among the most wide-ranging in the nation and aims to adjust development rules based on individual neighborhood needs. The city also introduced pre-approved plans to hopefully make the permitting process simpler and less expensive for developers.

Sacramento's effort is viewed as a progressive policy approach to a housing crisis, though integrating this new kind of housing into established neighborhoods poses challenges that require careful consideration. Questions about how these changes will impact existing communities remain a topic of discussion, particularly given the city's population, which was around 528,000 at the time. Sacramento's initiative represents part of a wider pattern of cities throughout the United States experimenting with incremental zoning changes to address a general scarcity of housing. It's too early to know if Sacramento's approach will be successful in terms of creating more diverse and affordable housing or lead to unforeseen downsides.

In July 2022, Sacramento, California, took a step towards addressing its housing shortage by implementing a streamlined permitting process for what's known as "missing middle housing." This refers to a range of housing types, like duplexes and triplexes, that fall between single-family homes and larger apartment buildings. The idea was to cut down on the time and paperwork often involved in getting permits for these types of projects.

Sacramento's city council saw a pressing need to act. Facing an estimated 50,000-unit housing deficit by 2022, the city hoped that quicker approvals for missing middle housing would help keep up with its growing population. The revised process used a "ministerial review" for some housing types, instead of the usual "discretionary review," aiming for faster approvals while still upholding established design standards.

Sacramento's move was part of a larger trend across the US where cities were acknowledging that diverse housing options are vital for managing housing costs and meeting the needs of evolving populations. Researchers noticed this shift away from rigid, exclusionary zoning practices that limited housing choices.

Reports following the policy change showed that permits for missing middle housing jumped by over 40% year-over-year. This outcome suggests that Sacramento's approach might serve as a valuable model for other places dealing with similar housing issues.

Interestingly, Sacramento’s approach was informed by studies highlighting that communities with a wider variety of housing types tend to be more economically vibrant and less prone to displacing lower-income residents. This underscores the important social and economic aspects of zoning reforms.

Sacramento's work gained attention from the state of California, which was grappling with a broader housing crisis. State officials explored adopting similar policies statewide, potentially signaling a wider impact of Sacramento's local changes.

The streamlined process, however, also raised concerns among some residents and urban planners about the thoroughness of design review processes. They worried that fast-tracked approvals might negatively affect the quality and character of neighborhoods. This points to the enduring debate about balancing development speed with preserving community aesthetics.

Advocates for housing emphasized that, while the Sacramento initiative was positive, it needed to be accompanied by careful planning to make sure infrastructure and public services could handle the likely rise in population density.

Sacramento's new system aimed not only to make it easier to build homes, but also to give local residents more input through feedback mechanisms that allowed them to share their opinions before projects moved forward. This attempt at community engagement demonstrates an effort to balance rapid housing growth with a more collaborative approach to urban planning.

As of late 2024, the long-term impacts of Sacramento's missing middle housing policy are still unfolding. It will be important to follow how this approach affects neighborhoods, infrastructure, and housing affordability over time, offering valuable insight into innovative urban development strategies.

How 7 US Cities Successfully Implemented Incremental Zoning Changes Since 2020 - Boston Creates Transit Oriented Mixed Use Zones May 2021

In May 2021, Boston implemented a policy to create transit-oriented, mixed-use zoning districts. This initiative aimed to address the city's housing shortage by promoting the construction of multifamily housing near public transit stations, particularly those run by the MBTA. The policy aligns with broader goals to create a more sustainable and densely populated urban environment. However, the implementation of this policy, driven by the MBTA Communities Act, has been controversial. Various neighborhoods and communities have debated the changes and faced challenges in meeting the new requirements, highlighting a conflict between regional planning and local autonomy. It remains uncertain whether these zoning changes will significantly improve housing availability and affordability in Boston, and this process offers an example of the complexities and potential downsides of implementing major changes to established zoning laws in response to pressing urban needs. The approach taken in Boston represents one strategy for addressing a major urban problem, but whether it will ultimately succeed remains to be seen.

In 2021, Massachusetts's focus on economic competitiveness led to the MBTA Communities Act, aiming to create more housing near public transit. This approach, which emphasizes "transit-oriented mixed use zones", is a strategy for encouraging compact urban growth and maximizing the use of land around transit hubs. Research suggests that enhanced transit accessibility through zoning can noticeably boost public transportation use, and Boston's transit patterns are likely to change as these mixed-use zones are developed.

The act also encourages local economic development by blending residential and commercial spaces within these zones. The hope is to reduce commute times and provide more job opportunities in local areas, a strategy that seems to be reflected in nationwide urban planning trends since 2020. The intent is to create more lively urban environments by fostering increased pedestrian activity, which can in turn increase business sales and community engagement.

One of the more interesting aspects of this zoning change is the attempt to incorporate community input into the decision-making process. This is an often neglected aspect of urban planning that is essential for a successful outcome. However, the zoning changes in Boston may not be as extensive as those seen in other cities. Nonetheless, the zoning reforms allow for adaptability and different housing types, potentially benefiting diverse demographics.

It's worth noting that while increased density can be beneficial, it's important to assess how the existing urban infrastructure will handle it. There could be unforeseen strains on transportation, public services, and other systems. This law, as well as other zoning changes since 2020, reflects a change in how cities are viewing urban growth patterns. Boston's shift towards transit-oriented development is part of a longer history of reforms designed to encourage urban redevelopment.

Finally, this type of zoning strategy likely requires collaboration with nearby municipalities to make sure that planning and development efforts are aligned across the region. It seems that this aspect of the planning process is sometimes underestimated in broader urban planning efforts.

How 7 US Cities Successfully Implemented Incremental Zoning Changes Since 2020 - Seattle Expands Urban Village Boundaries August 2021

Seattle, in August 2021, expanded the boundaries of its designated urban villages as a key component of its "One Seattle Plan." This long-term strategy seeks to guide growth, housing, and community investments through the year 2040, with a focus on concentrated development in specific areas. The expansion aimed to increase density within these villages to address a projected housing shortfall. City officials had hoped to add 70,000 housing units over the 20-year plan, but the pace of building has been slower than projected, with only roughly 45,000 units built between 2016 and the middle of 2021.

To enhance housing options, particularly in areas outside of the primary urban villages, Seattle created five new "neighborhood anchors," which are essentially smaller-scale versions of the urban village model. These new designated zones were scattered throughout the city in locations like North Magnolia and Hillman City. Simultaneously, Seattle also rebranded single-family zoning to "neighborhood residential zoning" to increase flexibility in residential development. The city also enacted a policy that allowed homeowners to construct two accessory dwelling units on single-family lots, creating opportunities for more diverse housing types and potentially improving affordability.

The success of Seattle's plan and these zoning changes rests on balancing growth with community needs. To that end, the city is actively seeking resident input through online and in-person community meetings that are scheduled to run through late 2024. However, there is no guarantee that these expanded village boundaries and zoning changes will alleviate the city's housing pressure in a meaningful way. Ultimately, the outcome of Seattle's efforts depends heavily on resident engagement and a willingness to work with city planners to develop and implement solutions that address the unique challenges facing diverse communities.

Seattle's One Seattle Plan, a 20-year roadmap for growth, housing, and community development, emphasizes the role of urban villages. In August 2021, the city expanded these urban village boundaries, hoping to encourage denser development and address projected housing needs. While the city added roughly 45,000 housing units between 2016 and mid-2021, it anticipated needing 70,000 units over the two decades covered by the plan, leaving a considerable gap to fill. This push also led to the designation of five new, smaller "neighborhood anchors" in areas like North Magnolia and Hillman City, attempting to replicate the characteristics of larger urban villages on a smaller scale.

The expansion affected about 27 neighborhoods and involved a mix of residential and commercial zones, raising questions about how the changes will align with existing community identities and whether they can mitigate the often-voiced community resistance to increased density. This 2021 expansion coincided with a policy (Mandatory Housing Affordability, introduced in 2019) that incentivized density within urban village borders. Seattle also revised laws to allow for two accessory dwelling units on single-family lots, which, while intended to increase housing supply, could potentially lead to unanticipated consequences on neighbourhood dynamics. The city continues to seek feedback from residents on draft zoning maps as part of the broader plan update process.

The city's decision to expand urban villages, also seen in other cities since 2020, came in response to the escalating national housing affordability crisis. The process included a period of community outreach where residents expressed their worries about increased density and the potential impact on neighborhood character. One intriguing aspect of Seattle's efforts is the attempted connection between the urban village approach and transit planning, suggesting that improvements in travel efficiency could follow. It’s still too early to understand whether the hoped-for improvements will materialize. Past urban village expansions have been associated with higher property values, which raises questions about whether the program could exacerbate gentrification or displace lower-income residents.

Lastly, this expansion necessitates careful planning for adjusting city services like schools, parks, and emergency response, considering how well current resources can accommodate a larger resident population and maintain the quality of life. It will be essential to closely monitor the impact of the boundary expansion on these areas and how the city handles the related growth and its consequences over time. The long-term ramifications and broader success of the changes are yet to be fully realized and will require ongoing observation and study.

How 7 US Cities Successfully Implemented Incremental Zoning Changes Since 2020 - Austin Adds Corner Store Zoning To Residential Areas February 2021

In February 2021, Austin implemented a change to its zoning rules that allowed for small commercial uses, specifically corner stores, within residential areas. The city's goal was to foster what they call "complete neighborhoods" and "10-minute neighborhoods" where residents have ready access to basic needs within a short walking distance. This strategy is part of a larger effort to create a more integrated and balanced urban environment where housing and commercial uses are more closely intertwined. Supporters likely see it as a way to improve convenience and boost local business growth. However, this shift in zoning could have unintended consequences, such as changes to the established character of residential areas. It's also possible that it doesn't fully address Austin's evolving residential and commercial needs given its population growth. Nevertheless, this alteration in zoning reflects a wider shift in Austin's planning approach as it seeks to promote diverse housing and services through updated regulations.

In February 2021, Austin implemented a zoning change that allowed for small commercial uses, specifically corner stores, within traditionally residential areas. This change aimed to improve neighborhood access to everyday goods and services, thereby reducing reliance on car travel. It's interesting how this aligns with a broader push across many cities to encourage mixed-use development, promoting walkable neighborhoods.

This shift was part of a broader Austin initiative to foster local businesses and offer diverse shopping options within easy walking distance for residents. It reflects the growing awareness among urban planners about the importance of blending commercial and residential spaces to support vibrant communities.

However, concerns were raised by community members. Many worried about potential increases in traffic and noise levels, as well as the possibility that corner stores could contribute to gentrification. Introducing commercial activities into established neighborhoods can often lead to tensions and debates about what's best for the community.

Austin's approach is noteworthy because it emphasized flexibility in regulations, allowing for a range of business models within these corner store zones. Yet, this raises the question of how much control the city can exert over the types of businesses that develop, potentially affecting neighborhood character. It's a constant struggle for urban planners to balance the positive aspects of zoning changes with the desire to maintain a sense of place.

By the end of 2024, observations from similar efforts in other cities painted a somewhat mixed picture of their success. While some communities embraced these changes, others did not, suggesting there's no easy formula for integrating corner stores into residential areas. The Austin case provides a useful example within this larger conversation about urban zoning reform.

The introduction of corner stores into residential areas relates to ongoing research that points to the positive social aspects of local shops, which include community engagement and boosting economic resilience within neighborhoods. But, the key question is: will these stores truly serve the needs of the residents they're supposed to benefit, or will they cater to outside demands instead?

Austin incorporated design guidelines into the new regulations. These guidelines attempt to reconcile the need for new commercial development with the desire to preserve the visual appeal of the neighborhoods. However, balancing the two might become a significant challenge in practice, especially in areas of the city where the desire for commercial spaces is already very high.

It's also worth noting that Austin has experienced substantial population growth, placing pressure on housing availability. The effectiveness of these corner stores in providing local goods and services within this context will provide valuable insight into the effectiveness of such zoning reforms.

Initial reports following the zoning changes showed a surge in interest from local entrepreneurs wanting to establish corner stores. The long-term success of this project, though, hinges on continued community support and an ability to adapt to the specific conditions of different neighborhoods. It clearly illustrates how important involving the community is in the planning process.

The lasting impact of this initiative on Austin and urban environments across the US is an interesting and important question. Will this push toward more mixed-use development become widespread, or will it remain primarily an experiment within Austin? Studying Austin's experience will likely provide crucial insights for urban planners across the nation grappling with similar issues.