The new Zoning Code for Northwest Denver proposes rezoning majority of the area to a “single family dwelling” zone. This is lower density that currently allowed by R2 and R3 designations. This move seems to be contradictory while Denver strives to be a “green city”.
Increased urban density results in more sustainable communities because it reduces the need for developing virgin land for housing and decreases urban sprawl. Urban infill and new construction on previously developed land allows for access to existing services and transportation. Usually city planning efforts encourage higher density residential zones near town centers to bring people closer to their work place and thus eliminate long commute.
Now, nobody is proposing to build high rise developments in the Highlands. Current zoning restrictions make it impractical and impossible to do anyways. But there are hundreds of duplexes and townhouses here, built anywhere from early 19 hundreds till present, that are a part of our urban landscape. Why shouldn’t new developments of this kind continue to be allowed in the area?
Northwest Denver has been thriving in the past recent years as more people like to live near attractions offered by the downtown. That said I’m puzzled why the City wants to limit the growth of NW Denver.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
As they roll out the new code, it is greening up somewhat. For folks interested in the gritty details, please read http://greenbuildingindenver.blogspot.com/2009/07/denvers-new-zoning-code-is-dropping.html
ReplyDeleteI agree, the second draft is somewhat greener.
ReplyDeleteStill, I wish the authorities put more trust in the citizens and allowed them to make choices that are right for them and their community.