• How can we accelerate local code reform? Act more like the Tortoise, less like the Hare

    The goal of CNU's Project for Code Reform is to bring coding innovations to 42,000 units of local government to enable complete communities.
    Across the country, many small and mid-sized cities and towns are looking for ways to foster greater Main Street and downtown development, redevelopment, and revitalization. One barrier to these efforts is local codes and ordinances, which are the very DNA of what makes—or breaks—a place. Zoning,...Read more

  • We need code reform: How do we get there?

    Focusing attention on downtown, areas facing heavy development pressure, and neighborhood centers can help.
    We know that traditional zoning and development codes can be harmful to building strong, prosperous communities. In Michigan, we have major statewide initiatives to support locals in wrestling their regulations around to something that does what they want: Redevelopment Ready Communities helps...Read more

  • In praise of the existing building code

    These are buildings with tremendous intrinsic value that have been standing and functioning for over a hundred years, but are technically unusable according to current building codes.
    We are very big fans of the International Existing Building Code. This is a very special code that allows for flexibility in renovating and reusing existing buildings. One major challenge with any new code is that existing buildings often don’t meet new requirements. Retrofitting existing buildings...Read more

  • Zoning reform is national priority, White House says

    Administration calls for local laws to allow accessory dwelling units and denser development and eliminate off-street parking requirements, among other changes.
    The Obama Administration is calling on cities and towns to reform land-use regulations to allow denser development by right while recommending actions that new urbanists have long supported. The administration released a “ toolkit ” on housing development that recommends eliminating off-street...Read more