Roger E. Eastman recounts the process and product of a recent effort by Flagstaff, Arizona to replace an outdated zoning code with an innovative hybrid of form-based and Euclidean elements.
Along with co-authors Daniel Parolek and Lisa Wise, Eastman provides a detailed case study of the process by which the code was assembled and the community was engaged. The result of the process was a unique hybrid code that, "will be repaid in a more efficient, more equitable, and easier-to-use zoning system," and also, "changed the generally negative perception of city planners."
According to the authors, the crucial first step in assembling the hybrid code was to distinguish "walkable urban" from "drivable suburban" areas, upon which the form-based and conventional portions of the code would be respectively applied.
One innovative aspect of the new Flagstaff code is that, "Unlike other hybrid approaches in which the FBC [form based code] is an exception within an otherwise conventional zoning code framework, the Flagstaff code defaults to walkable urbanism and makes drivable suburban development the exception."
The article goes on to detail specific innovative policies, lessons learned, and the successful public engagement strategy .
FULL STORY: Going Hybrid
Cleveland Planning Commission Approves New Form-Based Code
If passed by the city council, the new form-based code will be piloted in four neighborhoods.
Majority of Americans Prefer Larger Homes and Longer Trips, Survey Says
The percentages have fluctuated on either side of the pandemic, but most Americans prefer to live in communities with larger houses, located farther away from schools, stores, and restaurants, according to a recent Pew Research Center survey.
Flagstaff Housing Needs Outstrip Supply
Data from Flagstaff shows a growing need for affordable rental housing and homeownership options, which the city’s ten-year housing plan is working to address.
Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?
King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.
Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.
Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie