The project aims to bring zoning data from around the country into one database, making it easier for planners and researchers to compare policies and their impacts.
An article in PD&R Edge highlights progress on the National Zoning Atlas, an effort to consolidate nationwide zoning data into one GIS database to let researchers analyze and compare zoning policies and their effects. “The purpose of the atlas is to offer insight into zoning’s effects and democratize land use decisionmaking through comprehensive, digitized, and user-friendly zoning information.”
The creators of the Zoning Atlas say “the decentralization of zoning laws has hindered the identification of problems arising from land use regulations.” The effort is already underway in 21 states, and almost complete in New Hampshire.
“An ongoing challenge that the atlas can help address is the obfuscating effects of complex and competing land use interests to reform.” As the article explains, “Aggregating this information makes the scale of statewide challenges more readily apparent and could bring stakeholders on board to address the collective action problems that intricate zoning systems pose.”
Read the full story: Creating the National Zoning Atlas
National Zoning Atlas Expands
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City of Rosemead
Rutgers University, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
One Hundred Miles
Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
City of Cambridge
Montrose County
The Pocatello Development Authority