Faced with the challenges and controversies of rapid growth, Charlotte has approved a new comprehensive plan and unified development code in recent years.

The city of Charlotte is all set to launch its new zoning code in June, culminating a process that included the adoption of a new Unified Development ordinance in 2022 and a new comprehensive plan in 2021.
An article by Julia Kauffman for WCNC Charlotte presents the news in relation to ongoing development controversies around the city, presenting the arguments of local homeowners that large developments are moving forward despite not fitting the goals of the Charlotte 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
For example, Kaufman mentions a total of 29 rezoning petitions under consideration, “including plans for thousands of apartments near Interstate 485.”
“The massive plan for housing, commercial space, and a school is not consistent with the city's 2040 Plan for that area, but city planners are still recommending city council approve it,” writes Kaufman.
“Land right outside of Mitchell's neighborhood on Mallard Creek Road is zoned for single-family houses. A developer has submitted a rezoning petition to change to build 186 townhomes on the property despite pushback from neighbors,” adds Kaufman. “When Charlotte’s UDO takes effect in June, houses, duplexes, and triplexes could be built on the land. Townhomes would not be allowed unless the land is rezoned.”
The 2040 Plan allows new density as the quickly growing city searches for solutions to rapidly rising housing prices. The UDO seems to be where the rubber is hitting the road with some members of the public. ““We understand the growth, we understand the need for density, but it's unchecked,” says homeowner Reverend Jordan Boyd, as quoted in the article.
The Charlotte UDO is online and available for independent review and assessment. Kaufman did not solicit any comments from members of the city’s planning staff.
FULL STORY: Charlotte's new zoning rules that guide growth take effect in June

Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.

North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.

Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.

Santa Barbara Could Build Housing on County Land
County supervisors moved forward a proposal to build workforce housing on two county-owned parcels.

San Mateo Formally Opposes Freeway Project
The city council will send a letter to Caltrans urging the agency to reconsider a plan to expand the 101 through the city of San Mateo.

A Bronx Community Fights to Have its Voice Heard
After organizing and giving input for decades, the community around the Kingsbridge Armory might actually see it redeveloped — and they want to continue to have a say in how it goes.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Ascent Environmental
Borough of Carlisle
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service