During a building boom, Denver has tightened its codes and regulations on certain types of development, and the moves have widespread support, according to a Denver Post columnist.
Though developers worry that “forced beautification” slows progress and adds cost, and architects fear that standards restrict their creativity, the aesthetics of recent projects seem to have broad acceptance. For example, a large project in the Cherry Creek area is considered a fine model for future neighborhood development.
The project used “genuine” materials, created retail spaces that are lively and transparent to keep the visuals interesting, and public plazas were built to human scale common to a low-rise area.
Denver now has about 20 neighborhoods, including historic areas, and large developments where new projects face mandatory review by the planning department. Only about 15% of the city’s total land area is subject to these reviews, however. Developers say the reviews must be timely and conducted by qualified staff for them to be effective.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 22, 2021
Think tank offers plan for new approach to reduce neighborhood poverty
Strategy uses more targeted approach to invest in low-income areas.
Codes and Standards | Mar 19, 2021
California city bans construction of new gas stations
Existing stations will not be allowed to add more pumps.
Codes and Standards | Mar 18, 2021
Congressmen ask Biden to tackle rising lumber costs
Rising materials costs and supply shortages threaten economic recovery, housing starts.
Codes and Standards | Mar 16, 2021
Massachusetts bill would mandate rooftop solar on new homes, commercial buildings
Proposed Bay State mandate modeled on California’s.
Codes and Standards | Mar 15, 2021
Nevada may create areas for tech companies to form own governments
Legislation calls for ‘Innovation Zones’ that could become smart cities.
Codes and Standards | Mar 11, 2021
Los Angeles commits to carbon-free city buildings
City will take into account embedded carbon when contracting to buy construction products.
Codes and Standards | Mar 10, 2021
‘Smart retrofitting’ will be crucial to net zero aspirations
AI, analytical software, Internet of Things are keys to decarbonization of built environment.
Codes and Standards | Mar 9, 2021
Salt Lake City is first jurisdiction to adopt new standards for off-site construction
Code Council and Modular Building Institute developing standards and compliance protocols.
Codes and Standards | Mar 8, 2021
Hyperlocal zoning could spur more affordable housing construction
Letting blocks and streets pass their own rules could have impact.
Codes and Standards | Mar 5, 2021
Biden builds on Trump’s “Buy American” order
New administration extends preferences for domestic construction materials.