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How Smart Growth Policies Are Reshaping Mid-Sized American Cities in 2024
How Smart Growth Policies Are Reshaping Mid-Sized American Cities in 2024 - Madison WI Transforms State Street Into Car Free Zone After 20 Year Planning Process
Madison, Wisconsin has recently implemented a car-free zone on a portion of State Street, specifically the 400 to 600 blocks. This transformation, a culmination of 20 years of planning efforts, is intended to enhance pedestrian-friendliness and gauge the feasibility of a permanent pedestrian mall. The city's planning department led the charge, which included the temporary closure of the designated area to most vehicle traffic. To accommodate necessities, some delivery vehicle access was allowed during specific hours. A celebratory event marked the shift towards a pedestrian-focused experience for the summer. However, the temporary closure, initiated in May and concluding at the end of October 2024, has garnered mixed reactions from the local university student population. The Madison experiment epitomizes a growing trend in smart growth, where mid-sized American cities are actively seeking to reimagine their urban spaces to better serve pedestrians and residents.
Madison, Wisconsin has recently implemented a car-free zone on a portion of its iconic State Street, a project that's been in the planning stages for twenty years. The City of Madison's Department of Planning, Community, and Economic Development spearheaded this effort, ultimately receiving approval from the Common Council to close off several blocks to all non-emergency vehicles for a trial period in 2024. This initiative was intended to assess the viability of making the area a permanent pedestrian mall, and it involved the removal of Metro Transit buses from the affected area to facilitate the design changes. The trial period began in May of this year and concluded at the end of October, marked by a celebratory “grand closing” that commemorated the summer of pedestrian-only access.
While delivery vehicles were permitted during limited hours, this experiment has generated a variety of reactions, especially among the students at the nearby University of Wisconsin-Madison. The intent is to make the area more walkable and enjoyable, and in the future, this concept might pave the way for a permanent transformation of other areas in Madison. However, it remains to be seen whether or not the experiment will be continued on a long-term basis, especially as there are different perspectives on what's optimal for pedestrian movement, transportation, and economic activity in the heart of Madison. This initiative is reflective of a broader pattern of smart growth principles being incorporated into urban planning across numerous mid-sized U.S. cities, where there's a clear focus on reimagining public spaces to improve the quality of life within a community.
How Smart Growth Policies Are Reshaping Mid-Sized American Cities in 2024 - Fort Collins CO Increases Housing Density Near Transit Stations By 40 Percent
Fort Collins, Colorado is embracing smart growth principles by significantly increasing housing density near transit stations. This represents a 40% boost in allowed housing density in these areas, reflecting a larger state-level push to address housing shortages and foster more walkable, transit-friendly communities. State legislation now directs local governments to set density targets around transit hubs, typically requiring roughly 40 housing units per acre. The goal is to make it easier for residents to access public transportation and reduce reliance on cars. While the policy aims to improve overall quality of life, some are wary of the potential consequences in neighborhoods already struggling with affordability. The Fort Collins example is a case study of how mid-sized cities are responding to the ongoing pressures of growth by making conscious choices about urban development. They are experimenting with ways to balance the needs of housing, transportation, and community well-being as they adapt to the challenges of the 21st century.
Fort Collins, Colorado, has recently adopted a policy increasing housing density near transit stations by 40 percent. This initiative, part of a broader statewide push towards smart growth, reflects a growing trend across the country. The policy, spurred by Colorado Senate Bill 241313, mandates that local municipalities establish zoning that supports an average of 40 housing units per acre near major transit hubs. This isn't just about adding more housing, though. It's tied to the idea that increasing density around public transit can improve efficiency and potentially decrease transportation costs by encouraging people to use buses and trains more often.
The state has committed $35 million towards infrastructure improvements in these areas, with flexibility for cities to adjust housing goals based on local water availability. While the intention is commendable, it's important to note that this approach is not without its complexities. It's interesting to see that research suggests a 40 unit-per-acre density can result in a 40% reduction in driving compared to the average Colorado household. The implementation of the policy targets areas within a quarter-mile of bus routes and a half-mile of train lines, seeking to optimize the integration of housing and transit.
This policy push, spearheaded by Governor Polis and signed into law in May 2024, has not been without opposition. Some cities have expressed concerns that a rapid increase in density, especially in areas already grappling with affordability challenges, may worsen existing problems instead of solving them. This underscores the delicate balance involved in implementing smart growth policies – the potential benefits must be carefully weighed against the potential downsides and the specifics of the local context.
The broader aim is to create more transit-oriented communities. Increased density around transit nodes is expected to create a more vibrant environment with opportunities for businesses and residents alike. It's also hoped that this approach will contribute to improved health outcomes due to increased walking and cycling, and potentially decreased social isolation due to greater access to community resources. Whether this ambitious plan will achieve its goals in the long term remains to be seen. The Fort Collins example, however, demonstrates the complex interplay between urban planning, transportation infrastructure, and the ongoing efforts to make communities more livable and sustainable.
How Smart Growth Policies Are Reshaping Mid-Sized American Cities in 2024 - Durham NC Launches 12 Mile Urban Trail Network Connecting Neighborhoods
Durham, North Carolina is creating a more interconnected urban environment by introducing a new 12-mile trail network. This trail system aims to connect different neighborhoods across the city, enhancing walkability and providing a more accessible urban experience. The initiative is aligned with a broader smart growth approach that is gaining momentum in mid-sized American cities in 2024.
One notable component is the expansion of the existing Durham Rail Trail, which is a key aspect of the effort to strengthen the city's pedestrian network and reconnect communities that were previously negatively affected by earlier urban planning choices. It appears Durham is also seeking to rectify historical inequities in urban development through this project. Federal funding and local engagement have contributed to this endeavor, highlighting a collaborative effort to achieve this urban revitalization initiative. The trail network's emphasis on outdoor activities and neighborhood engagement is a conscious choice to make Durham a more vibrant and interconnected urban space.
The success of the project will likely depend on its ability to successfully create stronger connections between different areas of the city and if it can achieve its goals of fostering a more inclusive and equitable community. Durham’s decision to pursue this ambitious urban trail network is a significant example of the ways in which smart growth strategies are transforming mid-sized American cities by improving the urban experience, accessibility and equity.
Durham, North Carolina has recently unveiled a 12-mile urban trail network aimed at improving connectivity between neighborhoods. It's part of a broader push towards what's often referred to as "smart growth" policies, a trend increasingly common in mid-sized American cities in 2024. The project has its origins in a 2023 grant application to the U.S. Department of Transportation, specifically seeking funding to explore repurposing an unused 18-mile rail corridor. This initial study led to plans for the Durham Rail Trail, an expansion of the city's existing trail network meant to improve walkability and general accessibility.
A key aspect of the trail's design is its goal to reconnect communities, especially those historically disadvantaged by past urban development patterns. Durham has been designated as one of four North Carolina communities participating in Smart Growth America's Community Connectors Program, a program funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, that seeks to help cities understand and mitigate the impact of infrastructure that has tended to separate communities. Furthermore, Durham has secured a $9 million federal grant for the Belt Line rail path, a 1.75-mile stretch that will utilize former rail lines.
The envisioned trail network is expected to create stronger links between downtown Durham and surrounding residential neighborhoods, encouraging outdoor recreation. The whole project is intertwined with the city's "SmART Vision Plan," a multi-year strategy with a $10 million budget dedicated to improving the city's overall aesthetic and urban environment.
While the project’s intent is laudable, some potential downsides need to be examined. While the trail project hopes to significantly increase property values near the trail, it will be important to see how this impacts affordability in the long run, considering that this could possibly contribute to gentrification. The reliance on sensor technology for collecting data about trail use, though potentially very helpful in optimizing design and planning, could also create privacy concerns that need to be addressed. While the trail aligns with public transit and hopes to reduce car use, it remains to be seen if it will significantly alter people's daily habits or transportation choices. This is a project that will certainly be worth monitoring, especially as it relates to potential impacts on neighborhood dynamics, and environmental benefits relative to the cost of construction and ongoing maintenance. It’s a concrete example of the challenges and opportunities involved in attempting to implement smart growth principles to create a more sustainable, accessible, and equitable city.
How Smart Growth Policies Are Reshaping Mid-Sized American Cities in 2024 - Boise ID Updates Zoning Laws To Allow Microhousing Units Below 400 Square Feet
Boise, Idaho has recently adopted updated zoning laws that permit the construction of smaller housing units, specifically those under 400 square feet in size. This change, which became effective in December 2023, reflects a broader effort to address the need for more affordable housing options within the city. The new zoning code, which has been in development for four years, is a departure from Boise's previous, outdated zoning rules. It streamlines the approval process for development projects and addresses various aspects of urban design, such as parking regulations, building types, and density standards. This revised code aims to encourage a more compact urban environment, a goal that resonates with a growing segment of Boise residents who prefer smaller living spaces. In fact, a local survey indicated a preference for microhousing units between 200 and 400 square feet.
The move to accommodate microhousing aligns with current trends in urban planning seen in other mid-sized American cities. By adapting its zoning regulations, Boise is striving to create a more dynamic and walkable urban landscape, hopefully fostering sustainable development and a stronger sense of community. While this approach has the potential to improve housing affordability and create more livable spaces, it remains to be seen how effectively it will address existing challenges and meet the diverse needs of the Boise community. The success of this initiative will likely depend on whether it achieves a balance between increased density and the preservation of neighborhood character and community well-being.
Boise, Idaho, recently updated its zoning code, a process spanning over four years and involving significant community input. This update, effective December 1st, 2023, replaced a nearly 60-year-old code, modernizing regulations on building types, permitted uses, and development standards. Notably, it permits the construction of microhousing units under 400 square feet, an attempt to address housing affordability challenges within the city. This decision seems to be partially driven by a 2022 Boise State University survey suggesting resident support for smaller living spaces.
This shift towards denser urban development aligns with trends observed in other mid-sized U.S. cities as they grapple with population growth and rising housing costs. It's interesting to note that the code revision also allows for expanded cafe footprints, up to 2,000 square feet, but includes restrictions on operational hours. It's plausible that this may be an attempt to create a more balanced and less intensely commercial environment. This new code also adjusts parking requirements and other building regulations to better match the concepts of smart growth. This code rewrite was evidently intended to promote more vibrant and walkable urban areas that better accommodate varied housing preferences, with an eye towards long-term, sustainable community development.
Beyond these specific zoning changes, Boise's overhaul is indicative of a broader effort to improve the city's infrastructure and address housing policies in a way similar to what's happening in other growing cities. It's quite likely that the city anticipates these zoning changes to influence the housing market dynamics and potentially impact community characteristics and resident demographics. One interesting question is how effective these zoning code changes will be in mitigating potential pressures on already-strained housing markets, particularly in the context of Boise's continuing population expansion. It will be important to see how the implementation of these changes influences different neighborhoods in Boise, whether the housing is affordable, and how it impacts the overall experience of living in Boise in the years to come. Monitoring the success of Boise's zoning code overhaul will provide valuable insights for other mid-sized cities as they navigate urban growth and housing policy challenges in the years ahead.
How Smart Growth Policies Are Reshaping Mid-Sized American Cities in 2024 - Ann Arbor MI Implements 15 Minute City Plan With 24 New Neighborhood Centers
Ann Arbor, Michigan is pursuing a 15-minute city model, aiming to make essential services and daily needs accessible within a 15-minute radius of residents' homes. This plan includes the development of 24 new neighborhood centers designed to foster a more interconnected and vibrant community. A key element of this initiative is the Southtown project, a mixed-use development with residential, commercial, and community spaces. This large-scale development, slated to open in 2024, reflects the city's commitment to its smart growth vision.
The city is further solidifying this vision with a new Comprehensive Plan, "A2 for All," which guides urban development and policy over the next 25 years, prioritizing sustainability and equity. However, questions remain about the practical application of this model and how it will address existing challenges. Will the new centers truly cater to the varied needs of residents, while simultaneously preventing displacement and preserving affordability in Ann Arbor? This approach, adopted by cities globally, demonstrates a shift toward more locally-focused urban design. It remains to be seen how successfully Ann Arbor's 15-minute city plan can navigate these complexities and ensure it delivers on its promises of greater accessibility and community well-being.
Ann Arbor, Michigan is implementing a "15-minute city" plan, a concept gaining traction globally, including cities like Paris and Portland. The core idea is to create neighborhoods where residents can access essential services—work, shopping, recreation, and daily needs—all within a 15-minute walk, bike ride, or short drive from their homes. This approach centers around the development of 24 new neighborhood centers, aiming to improve accessibility and reduce the need for longer commutes.
One major component of this initiative is the Southtown development, a mixed-use project slated to open this year. This project exemplifies the 15-minute city principle with its blend of residential, office, retail, and community spaces within a single, fully electrified building. It is important to note that this is just one project amongst many in their 2024 planning initiatives.
The city is also creating a new Comprehensive Plan called "A2 for All" that reflects the public's input. The 25-year plan will guide future development, focusing on sustainability, equity, and ensuring diversity in the community while encouraging investment. The city council has already endorsed smart growth policies that guide developments like Southtown, and a 16-story apartment tower and a new building behind the Michigan Theater are also part of the 2024 building boom.
This shift in planning strategy is not without its challenges. How this plan impacts neighborhood dynamics, housing costs, transportation needs, and infrastructure requirements are some of the things city planners and the community itself will have to consider. There's a balance to strike between increased development, urban density, and ensuring existing community needs are maintained and considered as part of the planning process. It will be insightful to observe how these plans and new developments affect Ann Arbor's fabric over time and what the feedback is from local communities who may or may not embrace these changes. The initiative highlights a growing trend where municipalities are attempting to reshape their urban landscape through thoughtful planning, hoping to positively influence local living conditions, transportation patterns, and economic opportunity for all residents. Furthermore, the strong emphasis on community feedback during this planning process implies that Ann Arbor is committed to ensuring the community's priorities are addressed in the implementation of these plans. It is through this continued community dialogue that Ann Arbor can effectively address the complexities of urban development, fostering a more sustainable, interconnected, and equitable environment for generations to come.
How Smart Growth Policies Are Reshaping Mid-Sized American Cities in 2024 - Spokane WA Converts Downtown Parking Lots Into Mixed Income Housing Projects
In Spokane, Washington, a novel approach to address a housing shortage is underway. The city council recently passed an ordinance called "Pavement to People" that promotes the conversion of downtown parking lots into mixed-income housing developments. The initiative's goal is to reimagine underused parking areas, a resource that research has shown is in excess in the city center. The ordinance includes incentives for developers to create more affordable housing, highlighting a change in priorities within the city's development strategy.
The idea is that using some of the large amount of vacant parking for housing will create a better mix of uses in the downtown area, and possibly lead to a more vibrant community. Some city officials see this as a way to create a more functional and sustainable downtown core, and they are hoping to make this a successful pilot project that may be replicated in other parts of Spokane. The city's actions clearly show a commitment to innovative urban planning to resolve housing issues. How successful it will be in the long run is something that will need to be monitored, but it’s a noteworthy response to an ongoing pressure facing many mid-sized American cities.
Spokane, Washington is experimenting with a novel approach to urban development by converting downtown parking lots into mixed-income housing projects. This initiative, known as "Pavement to People," stems from a 2019 study revealing that a substantial portion of downtown is dedicated to parking, with many spaces frequently unused, even during peak hours. The city council, recognizing a growing housing crisis and the potential to better utilize its urban spaces, has enacted an ordinance promoting these housing developments and providing developers with tax incentives, primarily aimed at ensuring the inclusion of affordable units. The definition of "affordable" in this context is tied to the 2024-2025 Spokane Area Median Income guidelines, seeking to increase housing options for those with lower and moderate incomes.
The council’s unanimous approval reflects a broad acceptance of the notion that some existing parking infrastructure could be repurposed for the greater good of the community. Notably, Spokane has already eliminated city-wide parking mandates, making it the largest city in Washington state to do so, thereby creating a more flexible environment for developers to build within the city's core. It’s a noteworthy shift in thinking about land use, potentially challenging the traditional reliance on automobiles in favor of creating more diverse residential options. However, this policy has not come without some local pushback. Some officials and business owners are understandably concerned about the potential loss of readily available parking in a region where driving is a common form of transportation. While the city manages about 15% of the downtown parking spaces, the majority of off-street parking is privately owned, thus creating a potential tension point between public goals and private interests.
The "Pavement to People" initiative seeks to integrate various income levels within these new housing units, leading to potentially more socioeconomically diverse neighborhoods. Interestingly, some studies suggest that mixed-income projects can contribute to a positive impact on property values over time, an intriguing aspect of this endeavor. By incorporating the development of housing near existing and planned transit infrastructure, Spokane is hoping to encourage greater reliance on public transportation options, thereby potentially reducing automobile dependence. This innovative approach will be watched with interest by other cities facing similar challenges, with particular attention paid to its success in addressing the housing crisis while also managing community perceptions and potential impacts on local businesses. The long-term implications, in terms of both economic health and community composition, remain an open question.
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