Measure 49 Stifling Subdivisions in Oregon

Subdivisions that were approved under Oregon's Measure 37 in 2004 and then overturned by the passage of Measure 49 last November are moving forward, but only a few houses at a time -- a result Measure 49's proponents say is a victory.

1 minute read

February 21, 2008, 5:00 AM PST

By Nate Berg


"The first wave of Oregonians wanting to develop their property under Measure 49 have overwhelmingly selected a modest path that will allow them to build one to three homes, state records show."

"About 86 percent of responding property owners chose what's called an 'express' development plan. Supporters of Measure 49 say that proves the measure is doing exactly what it promised: allowing rural property owners to build a few homes while blocking most of the big subdivisions that were proposed under 2004's Measure 37."

"The plans returned to the Department of Land Conservation and Development so far are a trickle of what's to come, however, and legal challenges remain. But even Measure 49's fiercest opponent, the property rights group Oregonians in Action, had no beef with the early returns."

Wednesday, February 20, 2008 in The Oregonian

courses user

As someone new to the planning field, Planetizen has been the perfect host guiding me into planning and our complex modern challenges. Corey D, Transportation Planner

As someone new to the planning field, Planetizen has been the perfect host guiding me into planning and our complex modern challenges.

Corey D, Transportation Planner

Ready to give your planning career a boost?

View of dense apartment buildings on Seattle waterfront with high-rise buildings in background.

Seattle Legalizes Co-Living

A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.

December 1, 2024 - Smart Cities Dive

Times Square in New York City empty during the Covid-19 pandemic.

NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project

Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.

December 1, 2024 - StreetsBlog NYC

'Vertical canyon' on glass-clad residential high-rise in Denver, CO.

Denver's New High-Rise Integrates Vertical Canyon in Architectural Design

Unlike other new builds in Denver, Colorado, a new high-rise reveals a unique “sculptural canyon” running vertically through the facade to foster a sense of community and connection to nature.  

November 29, 2024 - designboom

Acela Amtrak train in station in New Haven, Connecticut.

Amtrak Breaks Ridership Record in FY 2024

More Americans than ever rode the rails last year, also bringing the agency its highest ticket revenue.

15 minutes ago - Smart Cities Dive

Sec. Deb Haaland speaking at dais outdoors with Colorado mountains in background and three officials standing behind her announcing protection of Thompson Divide.

Commentary: Colorado Will Forge Ahead With Conservation Work

While federal policy may become less friendly to environmental efforts, support from state legislators and agencies can prevent the state from backsliding.

1 hour ago - Colorado Newsline

Group of children with backpacks walking toward colorful modern school building.

Expanding the Mission: Community Groups Serving Schools

Some community development organizations have added education to their traditional focus on housing and economic development, looking for ways to support families and children by partnering with local school districts. How is it working?

2 hours ago - Shelterforce Magazine

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.