PAD3330 Module 5

Comprehensive Plan

Guides the long-term growth and development of a municipality.

Goals of the Comprehensive Plan

Protect public health and safety (water, sewage, flood control), plan infrastructure (roads, sidewalks), promote economic development, preserve environmental and historical resources.

Function of the Comprehensive Plan

Serves as a policy framework for land-use decisions, zoning, and capital investment.

Comprehensive Planning Process

Steps include data collection & analysis, goal & policy formulation, plan development, public participation, plan adoption, implementation & review.

Public Capital Investment

Includes roads, sewer, water, transit, parks; Example: Westchester County 'Platinum Mile' - highway + zoning strategy.

Land-Use Controls

Regulate what is permitted/prohibited on land using tools like zoning, development agreements, exactions, form-based codes.

Traditional Zoning

Based on use and numerical limits (FAR, height, setbacks, parking).

Form-Based Zoning

Focuses on physical form and aesthetics; flexible uses; aligns with community vision.

Performance Zoning

Focus on impact rather than use.

Planned Unit Development (PUD)

Flexible, negotiated development agreements.

Zoning Ordinances

Local laws regulating land use and development.

Components of Zoning Ordinances

Permitted/Prohibited Uses, Building Dimensions (height, FAR), Setbacks & lot coverage, Parking requirements.

Additional Controls in Zoning

Site-Plan Review, Architectural Review, Historic Preservation.

Historical Background of Zoning

Origins in early 20th century, response to industrialization and urban growth.

Purpose of Zoning

Separate incompatible land uses (residential vs. industrial), control density, ensure public health.

Evolution of Zoning

Initially rigid and use-focused; expanded to include aesthetics, environmental protection, and performance standards.

Form-Based Codes

Focus on physical form, streetscape, and public spaces rather than specific uses.

Key Features of Form-Based Codes

Urban transect, specifies building placement, façade design, sidewalk widths, materials, landscaping.

Advantages of Form-Based Codes

Creates predictable, walkable, and aesthetically cohesive areas; aligns with community vision and neotraditional design.

Limitations of Form-Based Codes

Can be rigid and time-bound; best for new communities with room to build.

FAR (Floor Area Ratio)

Building floor area ÷ lot area.

Exactions

Developer contributions to offset community costs.

Development Agreement

Contract allowing flexibility beyond existing zoning.