Springfield: P&Z Commission unanimously approves updated land development code

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~ Springfield's Planning and Zoning Commission has unanimously recommended the adoption of an updated Community Land Development Code, commonly known as the "Zoning Code," to the City Council for approval. This regulatory document outlines the rules, processes, and procedures for land use within the city limits of Springfield. The last comprehensive update to this code was in 1995, with periodic updates made since then.

The proposed updates specifically target Chapter 36 of the Land Development Code, which includes zoning regulations and subdivision regulations. These updates also aim to coordinate with other city codes, such as the Building Code, to ensure consistency and compatibility in regulating new developments. The revisions are a result of the implementation of Forward SGF, Springfield's updated comprehensive plan that was adopted in 2022.

According to Steve Childers, Planning & Development Director, Forward SGF was a community engagement process that involved input from various stakeholders including neighborhoods, businesses, historical and environmental interests. Hundreds of residents participated in different engagement activities to provide a vision for Springfield's future. This vision required an update to the city's zoning code.

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The process of updating the Community Development Code began in 2023 after the adoption of Forward SGF. It has involved intense working sessions and discussions with City staff, Planning and Zoning Commission members, City Council members, consultants, design professionals, Neighborhood Advisory Committee members, Growth Development Advisory Committee members, builders, developers and other frequent users of the code.

Childers stated that if the City Council approves the draft in March as planned, work will begin on updating the official zoning map. Input will continue to be taken from both internal and external sources before additional text amendments are brought forward for consideration by both Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council. The full implementation of the code is expected to take place in early 2026.

The new zoning code is a crucial tool for achieving the goals set out by Forward SGF. Those interested in reading the articles of the code can visit the website at https://www.forwardsgf.com/initiative3/.

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Important dates to note include March 10, when the City Council will hold its first reading of the proposed code, and March 24, when a second reading and vote are anticipated. The proposed effective date for the updated code is early 2026.

The updates to the Community Land Development Code reflect several trends identified by Forward SGF, including a greater emphasis on creating attractive and amenity-rich neighborhoods with diverse housing options. The code also addresses practical solutions for meeting modern parking demands in retail and service sectors, as well as accommodating emerging consumer trends such as outdoor dining, drive-up services, and food trucks. Additionally, there is a focus on environmentally conscious development and improving the city's urban forest. The new code also aims to improve streetscapes and enhance the relationship between public and private spaces. It also integrates flexibility in permitted and conditional uses through increased design and performance standards while streamlining procedures for zoning, platting, site plans, and appeals.

In summary, Springfield's Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended an updated Community Land Development Code to City Council for approval. This code reflects the goals set out by Forward SGF and aims to improve land use regulations within the city limits of Springfield.

Filed Under: Government, City
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