Mixed-use development and a floodplain overlay are the big-ticket items when the small community of Akron Borough in Pennsylvania recently updated its zoning code.
The Borough Council in Akron Borough, Pennsylvania, a small community of just over 4,000 residents, recently approved the city’s first update to its zoning ordinance since 1997, with two big cutting related to the separate issues of commercial zoning to flood management.
According to an article by Larry Alexander, the majority of the changes approved by the city council updated definitions, including changes to mixed-use provisions in the city’s C1 commercial districts. “Primarily this ordinance addresses potential uses involving the Ten Thousand Villages building. The ordinance now will allow for some retail ‘providing they meet certain criteria,’” writes Alexander, quoting Assistant Borough Manager Sean Molchany.
Another change to the city’s zoning includes the creation of a floodplain overlay for all R1 residential properties located in a floodplain.
The source article, linked below, includes descriptions of some of the additional changes approved by the city.
FULL STORY: Akron council approves revisions to its zoning ordinances
Mapping Chicago's Zoning Code Changes
A new interactive map feature launched by the Chicago Cityscape website maps all the zoning changes up for approval around the city.
Boston to Begin Zoning Code Update, Mayor Announces
It’s been nearly 60 years, but the city of Boston is finally ready to do a comprehensive rewrite of its zoning code.
Zoning Changes Could Allow More Restaurants and Bars in D.C. Neighborhoods
Zoning can limit more than just multi-family housing.
Only Two US Metro Areas Are Affordable for Homebuyers
Northeast Ohio is the last remaining bastion of housing affordability, according to an analysis from the National Association of Realtors.
When ‘Prioritizing All Modes’ Is a Lie
In many cases, it’s impossible to prioritize the safety of pedestrians and other vulnerable road users without sacrificing some speed.
Great Album Covers with Urban Planning Themes
Album covers that evoke urban themes.
Musk ‘Supercomputer’ Raises Water, Power, and Pollution Concerns in Memphis
The facility, which was completed in just 122 days, was rushed through so quickly, it is still missing environmental permits and infrastructure needed to ensure it doesn’t put stress on the grid or local water supply.
School Drop-Off Traffic Is Causing a Congestion — and Social — Crisis
School drop-off lines are becoming longer and more isolating than ever.
Extraction on Tribal Lands Contributes to State Coffers
A recent investigation reveals that profits from oil, grazing, and other uses on state-managed tribal lands are funding off-reservation public institutions.
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 Riverside
City of Palmdale
City of Palmdale
Knoxville-Knox County Planning
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
Lehigh Valley Planning Commission
City of Calabasas
City of Portland, ME