Smart growth theory becomes practice through redevelopment strategies and zoning policies that channel housing and job growth into urban centers and neighborhood business districts. They create compact, walkable, and bike- and transit-friendly hubs. This typically requires local governments to implement code changes that allow for increased density and relaxed parking regulations that not only eliminate minimum parking requirements for new development but establish a maximum number of spaces allowed.
Updated zoning codes are essential to achieving desired smart growth outcomes and Tulsa is presently in the process of updating its outdated code. True mixed use zoning tools focus development in specific targeted areas sometimes offering density incentives to spur brownfield and greyfield land redevelopment. Zoning can also be used to require set-asides for parks and other community amenities.
Another popular smart growth tool is the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB). It can help contain high density development in certain areas but requires a lot of planning and study before implementation.
Author: Bill Leighty
http://billleighty.com Bill Leighty is a local blogger and Walter & Associates real estate professional with 34 years experience in the local market.
He has been actively involved in the community he loves by sharing his leadership skills in school and community related activities and organizations. In February of 2009, Bill was appointed by Mayor Kathy Taylor and confirmed by the City Council to a seat on the Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission where he served for five years, including a stint as its Chair. Bill was also appointed to the Mayor’s Land Use Task Force created to make recommendations for improved public education and communications regarding land use matters.
Most recently, Bill served 5-years on Tulsa’s Transportation Advisory Board as Vice-Chair, which makes transit related recommendations to the Mayor and City Council. Continuing to give back to the community he loves,
Bill founded Smart Growth Tulsa in 2014, an Oklahoma non-profit organization whose mission is To Advocate and Shape Smart Public Policy. Bill Leighty gives tirelessly of himself on behalf of his clients, customers and organizations through his sheer energy, uncompromising hard work and dedication. From historical preservation areas to new construction, Bill knows the real estate market, both residential and commercial.
