Exploring Equitable Zoning Reform with Urban Land Institute

Welcome to another episode of Urban Planning is Not Boring. Today, we're diving deep into zoning reform and its implications for our cities. We're thrilled to have special guests from the Urban Land Institute (ULI) with us to discuss their latest groundbreaking report titled "Reshaping the City: Zoning for a More Equitable, Resilient, and Sustainable Future." For those interested, you can find a link to the report further down in the episode description.
Joining us are two ULI experts who played pivotal roles in crafting this report:

Lian Plass, Senior Manager at ULI's Urban Resilience Program
Ben Forman, Senior Associate at ULI's Centers and Initiatives

We begin by demystifying zoning reform for those who might not be familiar with it, offering a concise definition and examples of its significance in shaping urban landscapes. Our discussion then delves into the barriers that cities face when attempting to implement zoning changes. Lian and Ben shed light on the complexities and challenges involved in reshaping zoning codes to address pressing issues like housing crises and carbon emissions reduction. The conversation turns to the ever-persistent "Not In My Backyard" (NIMBY) concerns that often arise during discussions of increased housing stock and inclusionary zoning policies. Our guests provide insights into how planners can effectively engage with these concerns while championing zoning reforms. Urban mobility is another crucial aspect of city planning, and our guests discuss how the public and private sectors can collaborate to create transportation systems that reduce car reliance and improve urban mobility. Climate change is an urgent concern, and we explore the current land use policies adopted by cities to combat its threats. Our guests share examples of these policies and assess their effectiveness. Lastly, we shift our focus to parks and green spaces, discussing how planners can ensure communities have ample access to green spaces.
Join us for this thought-provoking conversation as we unravel the complexities and opportunities in zoning reform, urban mobility, climate action, and community inclusivity. It's a podcast episode packed with insights for planners, policymakers, and anyone passionate about the future of our cities.
Resource Links

Reshaping the City: Zoning for a More Equitable, Resilient, and Sustainable Future