Explanation
BACKGROUND:
The Zone In Columbus Initiative is a multi-phase effort to update the City’s zoning code and Official Zoning Map aimed at providing a more effective, equitable, and sustainable framework for guiding land use, development and growth. Zone In was launched in response to a number of problems identified in a 2021 assessment of the current zoning code. In the Spring of 2023, the “Where Do We Begin” report identified that the initial phase of Zone In should focus on 140 miles of key corridors. These “Main Streets” were identified as having the greatest potential to deliver critically needed housing, support enhanced mobility options, and create employment opportunities in ways that are economically and environmentally sustainable. The report identified “Main Street” locations based on a number of factors including existing land use and development policy; current base zoning and overlays, existing conditions; proximity to current and planned public transportation, specifically COTA routes and proposed LinkUS bus rapid transit alignments; and site-specific circumstances.
The City of Columbus’ Zone-In Team, consisting of subject matter experts in planning and zoning, including lead consultant, Lisa Wise Consulting Inc., began development of new pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use zoning districts in 2023. This process involved extensive technical analysis, policy review, and community engagement. Outreach included community conversations, in-person presentations to area commissions and other community groups, social media and email distribution lists, webinars, and a project website. The process also benefited from the active engagement of the Zone In Advisory Committee. Comprised of a diverse membership with expertise in neighborhood, civic, development, and equity disparity issues, the committee’s guidance was particularly instrumental in the formulation of Phase One priorities, which were identified as focusing on housing, mobility, urban d...
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