The Vermont city will allow larger residential buildings and adjust other requirements to spur more ‘missing middle housing’ development.
Residential neighborhoods in Burlington, Vermont will now be able to accommodate slightly larger buildings thanks to zoning reform passed this week, reports Corey Dockser for Vermont Public.
The new rules allow up to two buildings with four units each and adjusts floor area ratio and lot line rules. “For people in large single-family homes they can no longer maintain or which don’t meet their accessibility needs, smaller housing options give them the option to downsize. And building in already-established neighborhoods means the amenities and infrastructure older people need are already available.”
Although the reforms are aimed at increasing the housing supply, city councilor Ben Traverse says “The most immediate change that we may see is existing homeowners being able to renovate or add on to their homes in ways that they haven’t.”
The new rules also create a “residential corridor” that permits buildings up to four stories tall that can include commercial uses.
FULL STORY: Burlington’s new zoning sets city up for more ‘missing middle’ housing
Where 2024 Presidential Candidates Stand on 12 Issues Important to Urban Planners
Whether you’re yet undecided or have already cast your early vote, here is a roundup of the key positions of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump on important urban planning policies.
Amtrak Expanding Service in California’s Central Valley
Amtrak is planning a major expansion to the passenger rail lines connecting the Central Valley and the Bay Area.
Progressive Planning in Ideologically Conservative Communities
Planners must work in diverse political environments including conservative jurisdictions that are skeptical of new issues and perspectives. Here are ways to reconcile conflicting goals.
Denver Voters Approve Downtown Revitalization Bonds
The city wants to bring new projects and residents to the downtown core, where 13 million feet of vacant office and retail space await new tenants.
Seattle Has No Plans to Ditch Parking Requirements
An update to the city’s comprehensive plan will reduce, but not fully eliminate, parking mandates for housing developments.
Future of Public Lands Looks Litigious Under Trump
Experts say monuments and “unappropriated” federal lands will likely be the target for expanded drilling, mining, and other development under a new Trump administration.
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.
University of Southern California
City of Meridian
University of Calgary
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
Detroit Regional Partnership
San Joaquin LAFCo
City of South Portland