New Development Code in the Works for Piqua, Ohio

A southwest Ohio city is updating its development code in response to a desire in the community to better protect the city's existing communities.

1 minute read

August 2, 2020, 9:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Piqua, Ohio

The Hotel Fort Piqua was built in the late 19th century. | Susan Law Cain / Shutterstock

John Bush reports on the CodePiqua project in Pique, Ohio, which will generate a new development code and transportation plan for the city. 

The CodePique effort grows out of Piqua's previous Plan It Piqua Comprehensive Plan, which recommended a code update for the city to better implement the goals set forth in the comprehensive plan. 

"The purpose of the project is to put into place development standards that will promote neighborhood qualities that enhance existing developments and create a sense of a place. It also is meant to establish a new transportation plan that includes context sensitive standards for public right-of-way use and improvements," according to Bush. 

Piqua Economic Development Director Chris Schmiesing is quoted in the article saying that the city's current development code is too generic to reflect the built environment of the city. 

As for the transportation component of CodePiqua, Bush adds the following: "This initiative aims to help resolve many of the conflicts between modes of use, such as vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians. It will also help serve as a basis for future decision making by the Piqua Planning Commission, City Commission and Transportation Committee."

The city contracted Austin-based planning and code consultant Code Studio to work on CodePiqua. More information on the project is available on Code Studio's website.

Sunday, August 2, 2020 in Dayton Business Journal

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

For Lease painted on window of vacant commercial space.

2024: The Year in Zoning

Cities and states are leaning on zoning reform to help stem the housing crisis and create more affordable, livable neighborhoods.

January 8, 2025 - Diana Ionescu

Cyclist on bike in green painted bike lane at intersection with three-story buildings in background.

NACTO Releases Updated Urban Bikeway Guide

The third edition of the nationally recognized road design guide includes detailed design advice for roads that prioritize safety and accessibility for all users.

January 8, 2025 - National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO)

Colorado flags draped between buildings in downtown Denver, Colorado.

Denver Pauses Multifamily Development in Westside Neighborhoods Amidst Gentrification Concerns

City officials say the pause on permits for redevelopment projects aims to stop the displacement of long-term residents.

January 9, 2025 - Governing

Sign for Eaton Canyon Natural Area in Los Angeles County.

After the Fires: Challenges and Efforts to Heal LA’s Parks and Trails

The recent LA wildfires have devastated parks and trails, with recovery efforts requiring extended closures, collaborative restoration plans, and community support to address extensive damage and long-term risks like landslides.

1 hour ago - Los Angeles Public Press

Person on bike on path next to Memorial Bridge in Washington, D.C. with fall foliage in background across river.

DC Launches New Round of E-Bike Rebates

District residents can apply for a subsidy of up to $1,500 to purchase e-bikes.

3 hours ago - WUSA9

Black bollards lining a curved sidewalk next to a cobblestone street.

Why Aren’t There More Bollards in US Cities?

Solid barriers, like the dormant ones in New Orleans, are commonly used to improve road safety in Europe. Why not here?

4 hours ago - MinnPost

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.