Buffalo to Implement Citywide Green Code

Mayor Byron Brown announced that the city's new code will be the "Buffalo Green Code," supporting walkable, sustainable neighborhoods.

1 minute read

April 24, 2010, 9:00 AM PDT

By Tim Halbur


Mayor Byron Brown announced today his administration is moving forward on implementing a green, form-based code in Buffalo.

Mayor Brown chose Buffalo's emerging Larkin District as the backdrop to announce his Earth Day plans for what he's dubbing the "Buffalo Green Code," a replacement code that will completely scrap Buffalo's existing zoning ordinance, an unwieldy document last updated in 1951.

The announcement sets the stage for Buffalo to join a progressive vanguard of cities - including Denver and Miami - that are replacing conventional, use-based codes with streamlined, form-based regulations built to encourage mixed-use, walkable neighborhoods. Buffalo's new Green Code is also intended to support economic development by simplifying and shortening the development review process.

The zoning rewrite will be guided by a team of planning consultants including Camiros and Goody Clancy.

Thanks to Nate Neuman

Friday, April 23, 2010 in Buffalo Rising

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

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