Tucson Convenes to Revamp Zoning Code for Enhanced Walkability and Housing Solutions

Tucson’s city planners have dedicated the last two years to developing the Community Corridors Tool (CCT), a strategic initiative aimed at revamping the city’s zoning code. The intent is to foster a more pedestrian-friendly environment while facilitating flexible development across housing, commercial, and mixed-use spaces.

“We’ve kind of noticed that our zoning code is outdated,” remarked Daniel Bursuck, Tucson’s Planning Administrator. He emphasized the disconnect between existing policy documents, which advocate for specific types of development, and the prevailing trends resulting in auto-centric facilities like drive-throughs and self-storage units.

The urgency for the CCT arises from Tucson’s ongoing housing crisis. By targeting frequently vacant parking lots and derelict buildings, the initiative seeks to convert these underutilized areas into valuable residential spaces. Currently, restrictions tied to the city’s zoning regulations limit developers from constructing multi-story structures in certain locales, impose density caps, and mandate excessive parking provisions.

City officials believe that the CCT will streamline development processes, particularly along major thoroughfares, while revitalizing neglected spaces into vibrant mixed-use neighborhoods. Moreover, the plan aims to create accessible and shaded public areas, enhance public transit options by situating more housing nearby bus and streetcar stations, and promote affordable housing through developer incentives.

A public hearing regarding the CCT is scheduled for Wednesday, February 26, at 6 p.m. Participants can join either via Zoom or at City Hall, located at 255 W. Alameda St. Following the hearing, the planning commission will forward their recommendations to the City Council for final consideration.