Form-Based Codes Can Protect Main Street

"The disturbing reality is that more and more American towns and cities — especially those that would like to preserve their local culture and to grow their own local retailers and innkeepers — are facing a tough dilemma.

Towns that want to take command of their own destiny need to spell out their own vision of the Great American Main Street, not through traditional zoning but rather specific form-based codes. That means requiring that storefronts have ample windows, come right up to the sidewalk, and allow offices or residences on their second floors."