Susan Henderson investigates Lean Urbanism strategies for incremental code reform to improve walkability and reduce financial and regulatory burdens in a manner that matches local capacity.
"We believe form-based codes are the most efficient, predictable, and elegant way to assure high levels of walkability and urbanism – even in more rural environments. However, the political and staff capacity of many local governments is not prepared for a full zoning reform effort. CNU is developing an agenda of incremental code reform that blends perfectly with the Lean Urbanism initiative funded by the Knight Foundation and led by the Center for Applied Transect Studies."
"Along with a number of other tools to implement Lean Urbanism, a Lean Code Tool is under development, and will be unveiled at CNU 24 in Detroit. A plenary on Saturday morning will introduce the tools, an Open Source session on Saturday afternoon will delve into the particulars, and a 202 day-long workshop on Wednesday will test the strategies."
Henderson goes on to give a sneak peek of the tool, and some thoughts on incremental zoning code reform.
FULL STORY: Lean Code Tool

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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.
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Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Gallatin County Department of Planning & Community Development
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
JM Goldson LLC
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
Jefferson Parish Government
Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Claremont