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Posts for Abby Newbold

Floor Area Ratio: What It Is and How Local Governments Can Use It

December 3, 2025 by Noal Leonetti , Abby Newbold
Category: Guest Author , Comprehensive Planning-Growth Management , Housing , Transportation and Land Use

Regulations addressing floor area ratio (FAR) can help cities build density and give developers more options. Passed in 2025, HB 1491 requires certain cities use FAR when setting density standards near high-capacity transit stations for rail and/or bus.

The Connection Between Downtown Safety and Revitalization

March 5, 2025 by Abby Newbold
Category: Guest Author , Public Safety and Welfare , Design , Downtown Revitalization Series

Downtown revitalization often depends on public perceptions of safety in the downtown core. Localities can boost public safety through a variety of approaches, from local beautification projects to developing business improvement areas.

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