Peace, Love, and Zoning: MPDs in Midtown

The last month or so has been a big test for the newly adopted Midtown Plaza Area Plan. First, the City Council upheld the tight density limits imposed on the Plaza, rejecting two requests for rezoning. While many pro-development urbanists (including me) were disappointed to see a dense redevelopment proposal rejected, it was nevertheless encouraging…

Untangling the Westport Parking Controversy

A plan to replace a parking lot in Westport with new development is drawing criticism from both ends of the pro and anti-urban spectrum.  People on the pro-car, anti-urban side are criticizing the development because it removes parking spaces and increases density, which triggers their ‘where am I going to park/this neighborhood is unsafe’ reflex. On…