Tucson’s Planning and Development Services Department (PDSD) has released a draft proposal for the Community Corridors Tool.
This initiative encourages redevelopment along major corridors, aiming to enhance local housing, transportation options, and community-friendly spaces. Public input is encouraged, with community meetings planned for October 30 and November 4.
A Fresh Look at Tucson’s Zoning
The new Community Corridors Tool draft reflects Tucson’s vision for more vibrant, accessible corridors, making it easier to redevelop underused spaces along major streets.
At its core, the tool is designed to simplify zoning processes for infill projects, particularly those focused on affordable housing and walkable, mixed-use communities.
This initiative addresses the city’s goals to:
- Remove barriers to affordable housing development
- Foster transit-friendly, sustainable communities
- Align zoning standards with city policies
With Tucson’s population growing rapidly, these zoning updates could provide much-needed relief from rising housing costs. Mayor Regina Romero and the City Council directed the PDSD to create this tool as part of their commitment to support sustainable growth in Tucson’s housing and infrastructure.
Why Corridor Redevelopment Matters
The draft proposal promotes a redevelopment strategy focused on revitalizing Tucson’s commercial corridors. By transforming vacant lots, deserted strip malls, and sprawling parking lots into mixed-use spaces, the city aims to create destinations that benefit both residents and local businesses.
For instance, zoning changes under this tool may include reduced parking minimums, additional building height, and incentives for environmentally friendly features like wide, shaded sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly designs.
Objectives of the Community Corridors Tool
The new tool has several main objectives that impact both current residents and future developments:
- Encouraging Diverse Housing: Permits a wider range of housing types to meet growing demand.
- Incentivizing Sustainable Design: Promotes eco-friendly building standards, including open spaces, trees, and active ground-level areas.
- Simplifying Development Processes: Offers flexible development standards to reduce the time and cost of infill projects.
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
| Housing Focus | Affordable, diverse housing along corridors |
| Transit-Friendly Design | Support for walkable and bikeable spaces |
| Sustainability Goals | Shaded sidewalks, open spaces, historic building preservation |
| Flexible Standards | Additional height and reduced parking requirements |
These proposed changes work to address housing affordability, environmental sustainability, and community engagement, aligning with Tucson’s adopted plans and policies.
How to Get Involved
Tucson residents are encouraged to review the draft report and provide feedback to help refine the proposal. There are multiple ways to participate:
Public Meetings
- In-Person Meeting: Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. at the Tucson Convention Center (free parking in Lot B).
- Virtual Meeting: Monday, November 4, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. on Zoom.
Mayor Romero will share opening remarks at both meetings, setting the tone for the community’s involvement in shaping Tucson’s future.
Feedback Options
- Online: Submit your comments through the Online Feedback Form.
- In-Person: Share thoughts at the public meetings.
- Email: Send feedback directly to CodeDevelopment@tucsonaz.gov.
The feedback window closes on November 25, 2024, giving residents ample time to review and comment on the proposed changes.
Shaping Tucson’s Future Together
As Tucson’s population grows, the Community Corridors Tool marks a proactive approach to ensure the city’s development aligns with community needs and sustainable practices.
By streamlining zoning processes and encouraging transit-friendly, affordable housing options, the proposal offers a fresh approach to meeting the city’s evolving needs.
For those interested in contributing to Tucson’s future, the Community Corridors Tool provides a valuable opportunity to make your voice heard. Whether online or in person, Tucson’s residents have a chance to directly influence the spaces they call home.
Sources: THX News & City of Tucson.
