If the rezoning of single-family neighborhoods succeeds in Minneapolis as part of its ongoing Comprehensive Plan process, we could be looking at one of the most ambitious pro-development zoning schemes in the country.
"To relieve a worsening shortage of housing, Minneapolis planners have suggested allowing the construction of four-unit apartment buildings in virtually any neighborhood," reports Adam Belz.
The plan "could transform vast swaths of the city now limited to single-family homes," adds Belz.
The proposed allowances for "fourplexes" is included in the city's draft Comprehensive Plan, expected for release later this month. So far, members of the Minneapolis City Council have only been briefed on the plan, but Mayor Jacob Frey and Council President Lisa Bender campaigned on a platform that included increased residential density. Despite that political support from the city's leadership, new apartments aren’t always an easy development proposition in the Twin Cities. Belz shares a survey of recent development controversies in the article. Belz also finds other City Council members who express skepticism that the idea will find popular support in Minneapolis.
FULL STORY: Minneapolis leaders consider allowing fourplexes citywide to relieve housing shortage
Minneapolis Draft Comprehensive Plan Revealed
The city of Minneapolis is deploying many of the most contemporary planning tools as it works toward approval of the Minneapolis 2040 plan.
Triplexes Replace Fourplexes in Revised Minneapolis 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Minneapolis planners have released a revise draft of the Minneapolis 2040 comprehensive plan, cutting back on some of the plan's most controversial aspects, but still maintaining an ambitiously urban approach.
City Planning Criticism at a Critical Point in Minneapolis History
A columnist presents criticisms and recommendations for both sides of the density debate as Minneapolis considers a new comprehensive plan.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
USGS Water Science Centers Targeted for Closure
If their work is suspended, states could lose a valuable resource for monitoring, understanding, and managing water resources.
Congress Moves to End Reconnecting Communities and Related Grants
The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee moved to rescind funding for the Neighborhood Equity and Access program, which funds highway removals, freeway caps, transit projects, pedestrian infrastructure, and more.
Portland Council Tentatively Approves Sidewalk Repair Plan
The proposal would address sidewalk needs in Portland’s District 1 and District 4.
Expanding Access to Design Education at Honolulu Community College
Honolulu Community College’s Architecture, Engineering & Construction Technologies program highlights the role of community colleges in preparing nontraditional students for careers in architectural and construction technologies.
Integrating Human Rights Into Energy and Extractive Sector Transitions
Why just transition efforts must move beyond economic considerations by embedding human rights principles into business practices to ensure equitable, transparent, and accountable outcomes for affected communities and workers.
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.
City of Moorpark
City of Tustin
Tyler Technologies
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions