The City of Fort Collins launched Phase 2 of its comprehensive Land Use Code update, continuing efforts to modernize regulations governing land use and development within the community.
Members of the community are invited to engage with the city’s Community Development and Neighborhood Services team and share feedback about Phase 2’s portion of the city’s Land Use Code. Building upon the foundation of Phase 1, which was adopted by city council in May 2024 and focused on housing-related updates, Phase 2 will address a broader range of topics. Phase 2’s primary focus areas include:
- Enabling more mixed-use development, especially along transit corridors and within commercial centers.
- Promoting compatible infill and complete streets.
- Creating a more intuitive and user-friendly Land Use Code.
- Creation of resilient commercial centers that support local businesses and are adaptable to future community needs.
“Our current Land Use Code, established in 1997, has served us well but requires significant updates to meet the evolving needs of our city,” says Shawna Van Zee, City of Fort Collins’ city planner. “This phase of the update process is crucial in aligning our regulations with the community’s vision for the future.”
Key areas of exploration in Phase 2 include:
- Improving predictability of the development review process, especially to support small business owners.
- Aligning the Land Use Code with existing city policy plans.
- Advancing Fort Collins’ 15-Minute City goals.
- Balancing multiple desired outcomes such as economic growth, environmental sustainability and community well-being.
The city will be gathering community feedback throughout the fall of 2024. Residents are encouraged to participate through the project webpage and attend in-person Neighborhood Visits scheduled during October. For more information about Phase 2 and Neighborhood Visits, and to stay updated on the Land Use Code update process, visit fcgov.com/landusecodephase2.
Business Engagement Kick Off Event
The City of Fort Collins has announced a Business Engagement Kick Off Event for Phase 2 of the comprehensive Land Use Code update. The event will take place from 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024, at Visit Fort Collins, #7 Old Town Square, Suite 100.
Phase 2 of the Land Use Code update focuses on the city’s commercial and mixed-use areas, aiming to enable more mixed-use development along commercial corridors and reduce barriers in the Development Review Process. The city recognizes the vital importance of the business community’s voice in shaping these policy decisions.
“The input from our local businesses is invaluable as we work to create a more dynamic and efficient urban landscape,” says Michael Bussmann, lead business specialist. “This event is an opportunity for business owners to directly influence the future of our city’s development.”
The event agenda includes:
- Welcome and overview of expectations
- Project overview
- Presentation and Q&A session
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the Land Use Code and understand how they can engage with the city to guide these important policy decisions. Snacks and refreshments will be provided. Business owners and representatives are encouraged to register for this free event at fcgov.com/landusecodephase2.