Boulder Planning Board members recently reviewed possible code changes governing development in downtown and uni-hill mixed-use zones. The code changes were prompted in part by a proposed four story development at the former site of Robb’s Music last year. The proposed development at the SW corner of Canyon and 16th Street was denied. Other possible code changes include increased affordable housing requirements, reduced density, as well as lower FAR’s and lower building heights in blocks north and south of the existing downtown development. One possible offset for the new restrictions is that basements may not be counted in FAR and square foot calculations. The meeting was held on April 1, 2010 beginning at 6:00PM in City Council Chambers. (Planning Board members declined to approve the code changes pending a broader consideration of the underlying issues.) To review the agenda click here Current Agenda.
This is likely the beginning of a multi-year community discussion on the role of density in the City of Boulder’s future planning and development. The central question to be answered focuses on how density impacts sustainability.
Is Boulder more likely to achieve ‘sustainability’ by promoting density in key transportation corridors, or by limiting population and job growth? Weigh in. Let us know what you think.
Posted by bararealtors 
