FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Elisha Bartlett, Sr. Planner
Phone: 518-563-7642
Email: rosenquestc@cityofplattsburgh-ny.gov
Would you like a comment? Email: mediarequest@cityofplattsburgh-ny.gov
City Announces Progress on Zoning Update and Schedules Workshop #3
(PLATTSBURGH- April 9, 2024 ) - The City of Plattsburgh will be holding its third Public Workshop on April 17th from 6:00pm to 7:30pm at City Hall to share progress made on its zoning and land use law update project referred to as “SmartCode Plattsburgh.” The public is encouraged to attend the workshop in person, or online starting at 6:30pm. More information about SmartCode Plattsburgh and the workshop can also be found at https://my.cityofplattsburgh-ny.gov.
Project Background
SmartCode Plattsburgh has been underway since April 2023. This community-led initiative aims to streamline and enhance the City's land use regulations by making them more efficient, accessible, and responsive to the needs of the community and to implement the goals and recommendations outlined in the City’s Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) and recently adopted Comprehensive Plan.
The City, assisted by the professional consulting team of LaBella Associates, ZoneCO, and Sidekick Creative, have been evaluating alternatives to increase access to quality affordable housing, preserve neighborhood walkability, and enhance opportunities for neighborhood commercial and personal services, all key goals and recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan. In support of this effort, the City released working draft recommendations in February detailing potential amendments to the Residential Historic (RH) and Low Density Residential (R-1) Zoning Districts summarizing proposed zoning district boundary, density, and allowable use changes. These initial recommendations can be found through the SmartCode Website and the following links: Low Density Residential (R-1) and Residential Historic. The City also released a residential design visual preference survey (now closed) in January seeking feedback on community priorities related to neighborhood and residential design characteristics.
SmartCode Plattsburgh is now in the final stages of drafting potential amendments to the City’s RH, R-1, and R-2 Zoning Districts to better align zoning with existing uses, facilitate compatible infill development, repurpose vacant and underutilized properties, and increase opportunities for more affordable housing, including accessory dwelling units.
The City is also currently considering options to revise existing historic preservation regulations to streamline and improve the predictability of historic project reviews while continuing to promote the preservation, reuse, and proper maintenance of historic properties.
Results of the residential design survey, summaries of past public input, and a detailed overview of current draft amendments to the City’s residential districts and historic preservation regulations will be the focus of SmartCode Plattsburgh’s next Workshop.
Looking Ahead
SmartCode Plattsburgh will be considering potential adjustments to the City’s mixed-use, commercial, downtown, recreation, and industrial zoning districts, along with parking and short-term rental regulations. These initiatives reflect the City's commitment to creating vibrant, resilient, and inclusive neighborhoods and mixed-use commercial districts that foster economic growth and community well-being.
Plattsburgh's existing Land Use Laws, developed in the 1990s, have undergone continual updates over the years. However, the evolving nature of urban development has highlighted the need for a more cohesive and functional zoning code. Through the SmartCode Plattsburgh Project, the City aims to modernize its regulatory framework to accommodate the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors while preserving and enhancing the quality of life for all.
The progress achieved thus far through the SmartCode Plattsburgh project underscores the City's dedication to smart and sustainable urban development. By engaging stakeholders, incorporating best practices, and soliciting community feedback, SmartCode Plattsburgh is poised to establish a zoning code that provides a foundation for the City to truly thrive- become resilient, vibrant, and equitable.
For more information about the SmartCode Plattsburgh zoning update process, progress, and next steps, please visit https://my.cityofplattsburgh-ny.gov/en/projects/2023-zoning-update-process. Additional questions, comments, or concerns may be directed to smartcodeplattsburgh@labellapc.com
