In 2017, Buffalo, New York, revamped its zoning code to cease requiring a minimum amount of parking for commercial and residential projects.
A study of the impacts of the change found an uptick in development, particularly in commercial corridors served by public transportation. Inactive storefronts, underutilized historic structures, and former industrial buildings are being rehabilitated. Vacant parcels are being developed in fragmented neighborhoods.
The study looked at projects underway from April 2017 to April 2019. Developers of 14 sites mixing retail space and residential units incorporated 53% fewer parking spaces than required under the old zoning rules. Four of these added no parking.
Buffalo’s action seems to have sparked parking reform around the country. Minneapolis, San Diego, Salt Lake City, Raleigh, and Richmond are among the cities considering similar changes.
Related Stories
School Construction | May 3, 2016
Florida clamps down on school construction spending
Critics fear rules will hamper ability to build schools with desired features.
Resiliency | May 2, 2016
Connecticut to develop new code standards for resiliency
Expected more frequent severe weather events due to climate change prompts review.
Contractors | Apr 29, 2016
OSHA issues advisory to protect workers from Zika virus
Construction industry workers considered at high risk.
Codes and Standards | Apr 28, 2016
New research finds 30 measures to significantly cut energy use
ASHRAE’s prescription cuts across all building types and climates.
Codes and Standards | Apr 27, 2016
Florida gives developers more time to install first responder radio signal systems
Expensive upgrades can be postponed for several years.
Codes and Standards | Apr 25, 2016
San Francisco becomes first big U.S. city to require solar panels on new buildings
Pertains to commercial and residential buildings shorter than 10 stories.
Codes and Standards | Apr 25, 2016
GSA adopts SITES land development and management rating system
Federal agency will use for properties with and without buildings.
Wood | Apr 22, 2016
Revised 2015 Manual for Engineered Wood Construction available
American Wood Council Document offers design information for structural applications.
Codes and Standards | Apr 20, 2016
OSHA updates eye and face protection standards in final rule
Becomes effective April 26.
Codes and Standards | Apr 18, 2016
Efficiency finance pilot project to spur retrofits on existing buildings
EDF and PG&E team up on interest-free loans for qualified projects.
