City officials in Tucson are hoping to compile as much information as possible regarding the city’s holistic move to address ongoing infill development challenges.
What is officially known as the city’s Downtown Infill Incentive District, a zoning option process for development, is said to have to date led to the building of more than 1,000 new residential units in specific downtown areas since its launching in 2009.
More specifically, the infill incentive district has led to the redevelopment of stretches of the Sun Link streetcar route, as well as busy Oracle Road and Stone Avenue.
According to city documents, the infill incentive district has created any number of walkable streetscape designs, the protection of historic structures, and put in place design standards allowing for a “smooth transition between new development and buildings next door.”
City officials are hoping a series of public input meetings will lead to policy and procedure updates to the incentive district before its scheduled late January sunset date.
In a just-released report, the Multi Housing News lists the pros and cons of the infill development movement nationally, but notes that most cities have supported the trend, arguing that “it helps create affordable and attainable housing, as well as amenities and resources for local populations.”
By Garry Boulard