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
Codes and Standards | Oct 16, 2015
Appellate court enacts nationwide stay on controversial expansion of Clean Water Act
New EPA rule suspended until court cases settled.
Codes and Standards | Oct 9, 2015
New California law means commercial building benchmarking program will be implemented
Multifamily housing to be included, a first for a U.S. state.
Codes and Standards | Oct 2, 2015
New ASHRAE guideline for commissioning existing systems and assemblies
Focuses on optimum facility and system operation.
Codes and Standards | Sep 18, 2015
New RELi standard addresses disaster resilience
Based on LEED model, may help lower insurance rates
Building Materials | Aug 28, 2015
Structural steel buildings specification available for second public review
Next year's specification open for comments until Sept. 21
Energy Efficiency | Aug 28, 2015
North American Passive House Network e-book explains Passivhaus, net-zero techniques
Free guide includes spotlight on individual projects
Windows and Doors | Aug 28, 2015
Newly formed group challenges Florida building code
Window, door companies oppose provisions that raise costs
Codes and Standards | Aug 28, 2015
New Orleans becoming a model for climate resilience only 10 years after Katrina
The city has moved ahead with resilience strategies that may become a model for other communities
Codes and Standards | Aug 21, 2015
Illinois governor vetoes bill that would restrict condo owners’ rights
Bill would have made it harder to sue for building flaws
Codes and Standards | Aug 21, 2015
Post-Katrina roofing codes creating more resilient buildings on Gulf Coast
Ten years after storm, notable progress on stronger roofs, IBHS says