Bob Bengford discusses the feasibility of updating land use/design codes using a form-based approach for planners in the Northwest.
Bengford writes, "While form-based codes have been used successfully in other parts of the Country for three decades, they have only recently been applied in the Northwest. One possible explanation is the perceived difficulty in adapting form-based codes to the unique local contexts (both physical and political). The Northwest's diverse physical terrain, lack of established desirable development patterns, a desire for a broad range of architectural styles, and the fear of giving up permitted use lists are all real and perceived challenges in applying form-based codes. Perhaps another barrier is the lack of first-hand experience in drafting, adopting and implementing form-based codes."
Thanks to Byron Katsuyama
FULL STORY: A Hybrid Approach to Form-Based Codes in the Northwest

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?

King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.

Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.

Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
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.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Gallatin County Department of Planning & Community Development
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie