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So I'm new to St. Paul and not remotely fluent in its land use practices and zoning, but some recent proposed revisions by the StP Planning Commission to Ch. 60 of the zoning code look pretty good. Thread /1
The proposed revisions are part of the RM Zoning Study, which focuses on the following multi-family zoning tracts. /2
https://www.stpaul.gov/sites/default/files/Media%20Root/Planning%20%26%20Economic%20Development/RM%20Zoning%20Study%20to%20CNPC.pdf
https://www.stpaul.gov/sites/default/files/Media%20Root/Planning%20%26%20Economic%20Development/RM%20Zoning%20Study%20to%20CNPC.pdf
First change: removal of reference to "low rise / high rise" in the RM multi-family zoning categories, presumably to establish that height =/= density? /3
Next up: parking reqs! It appears this provision eliminates parking minimums for new MF construction within 1/4 of the University Ave (Green Line) corridor?
Seems like a good idea intuitively, since so much of that stretch is characterized by low-rise / surface parking lots. /4
Seems like a good idea intuitively, since so much of that stretch is characterized by low-rise / surface parking lots. /4
Redefining medium-density MF zoning with an emphasis on TOD and infill. /5
Looks like a proposal to eliminate minimum lot size reqs and instead use a FAR-based system for the RM MF zones. Of interest is a lack of any height maximum for RM3 MF zones. /6
Looks like FAR would be prorated based on the amount and type (surface vs. structured) parking, w/ a higher FAR allowed for developments w/ a certain % of units income-restricted to 60% AMI. /7
Some greater flexibility allowed for smaller setback reqs and increased max heights. /8
Some loosening of zoning restrictions along a small portion of Grand Ave. Eliminated min lot sizes, but kept 4 storey / 40 ft height limits. Area for reference. /9
Some more reductions in min parking reqs. 25% allowable reduction for 6+ unit structures w/in "one-half (½) mile of University Ave or any transit station serving light rail transit, bus rapid transit, streetcar or arterial bus rapid transit." That likely covers a lot of land! /10
That covers most of the proposed zoning amdnts, from what I saw. The city council is holding a public hearing on the proposed revisions on 8/26. Tune in to share your thoughts! Good work by the Planning Commission (incl. @BillLindeke)! cc @StreetsMN /end
https://www.stpaul.gov/sites/default/files/Media%20Root/Planning%20%26%20Economic%20Development/RM%20Study%20ENS%20public%20hearing%20notice-%20CC.pdf
https://www.stpaul.gov/sites/default/files/Media%20Root/Planning%20%26%20Economic%20Development/RM%20Study%20ENS%20public%20hearing%20notice-%20CC.pdf
