The proposed changes would permit more flexible housing development while limiting changes in historic neighborhoods and on smaller streets.

A zoning reform proposal from Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson aims to promote a wider variety of housing types and make housing more affordable, writes Jeramey Jannere in Urban Milwaukee. The proposal calls for allowing live-work units and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in most of the city, allowing three- and four-story buildings in more zones, and unbundling the cost of parking from rent, among other adjustments. Today, 40 percent of residential zones in Milwaukee allow only single-family homes.
The changes would largely affect commercial corridors and areas near transit. “At the same time it allows more options across the city, it also has components, based on lot width and other factors, designed to restrict large or wide new buildings from being developed in historic lower-density residential areas. The net result is an attempt to drive the highest density new development to commercial areas or existing high-density areas, while allowing only incremental changes in density on residential side streets.” Critics of this practice warn that limiting upzoning to major streets disproportionately exposes residents of multifamily housing to air pollution and other impacts.
FULL STORY: Zoning Changes Would Clear Path To 1 Million Residents (Milwaukee)

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.
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