Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Articles 1 - 10 of 10
Full-Text Articles in Law
Smart Growth-Oriented Density And Parking Regulations, Michael Lewyn
Smart Growth-Oriented Density And Parking Regulations, Michael Lewyn
Michael E Lewyn
Many articles have been written about pro-sprawl land use regulation, such as minimum parking requirements. This speech, by contrast, focuses on the frequency of land use regulation designed to increase walkability- in particular, minimum density requirements and maximum parking requirements. I conclude that the first type of regulation is quite rare and usually very lenient. The second type of regulation is more frequent; however, the impact of maximum parking requirements is not yet clear.
Against The Neighborhood Veto, Michael Lewyn
Against The Neighborhood Veto, Michael Lewyn
Michael E Lewyn
American zoning often gives neighborhoods elective veto power over nearby real estate development. This “neighborhood veto” sometimes artificially reduces housing supply and urban density, thus making housing more expensive and making American cities more dependent on automobiles. This article criticizes the common arguments that neighborhood activists use to restrict development.
The (Somewhat) False Hope Of Comprehensive Planning, Michael Lewyn
The (Somewhat) False Hope Of Comprehensive Planning, Michael Lewyn
Michael E Lewyn
Some commentators equate municipal comprehensive plans with "smart" growth (that is, development that considers the needs of nondrivers as well as the needs of automobiles). However, comprehensive planning. although desirable, is neither necessary nor sufficient for smart growth. Plans are not necessary because zoning reforms can achieve the same smart growth objectives as plans, and are not sufficient because many comprehensive plans support sprawl rather than smart growth.
The (Somewhat) False Hope Of Comprehensive Planning, Michael Lewyn
The (Somewhat) False Hope Of Comprehensive Planning, Michael Lewyn
Michael E Lewyn
Many commentators treat municipal comprehensive planning as necessary (or at least sufficient) for smart growth. This essay argues that comprehensive plans, although desirable, are neither necessary nor sufficient for "smarter" (that is, more nondriver-friendly) development.
Suburban Sprawl: Weaker But Still Alive, Michael Lewyn
Suburban Sprawl: Weaker But Still Alive, Michael Lewyn
Michael E Lewyn
Review of The End of the Suburbs, by Leigh Gallagher.
How Real Is Gentrification?, Michael Lewyn
How Real Is Gentrification?, Michael Lewyn
Michael E Lewyn
Some commentators argue that gentrification is turning many cities into a playground for the rich. This article rejects that view, pointing out that even relatively affluent cities are still poorer than the average suburb.
The (Somewhat) False Hope Of Comprehensive Planning, Michael Lewyn
The (Somewhat) False Hope Of Comprehensive Planning, Michael Lewyn
Michael E Lewyn
Comprehensive planning at the municipal level, although useful in a variety of ways, is neither necessary nor sufficient to promote "smart" (that is, pedestrian and transit-oriented) growth. Comprehensive plans can be used to support sprawl as easily as to support smart growth, while smart growth may be promoted effectively through zoning reform or statewide legislation as well as through local planning.
How Comprehensive Planning Makes Suburbia More Sprawling, Michael Lewyn
How Comprehensive Planning Makes Suburbia More Sprawling, Michael Lewyn
Michael E Lewyn
Many commentators associate comprehensive land use planning with smart growth- but in fact, municipal plans can be used to further sprawl as well as smart growth.
Plans Are Not Enough, Michael Lewyn
Plans Are Not Enough, Michael Lewyn
Michael E Lewyn
Some commentators see comprehensive municipal plans as a remedy for suburban sprawl. But in fact, a plan can be used to promote sprawl as well as to prevent sprawl.
Land Use Regulation: It Just Gets Worse, Michael Lewyn
Land Use Regulation: It Just Gets Worse, Michael Lewyn
Michael E Lewyn
Some commentators treat suburban sprawl (by which I mean automobile-dependent land development) as the result of the free market at work. This article reviews City Rules, by urban planning professor Emily Talen. In this book, Talen shows not only how zoning and similar land use regulations generate automobile-dependent suburban sprawl, but also how these regulations have become stricter, more pro-sprawl, and more complex over time. Talen proposes to reform these regulations through municipal codes that promote more walkable, less automobile-dependent development.