Lang Development Group’s Post

New paper! Wherein I venture (boldly?) into the world of real estate development, with Jennifer Vey and Tracy Hadden Loh. Developers have huge influence on economic outcomes through their choices about what, where, with whom, and for whom to build. When it comes to major catalytic development projects in urban cores, these decisions matter to both downtown revitalization and regional inclusive growth.   But a tiny fraction of developers have a theory about how to ensure their projects contribute to economic inclusion - and they should, even if just out of self-interest. If their projects involve inclusion-related investments at all, these are usually shaped by sporadic engagement with community organizations that results in a narrow set of commitments (construction jobs, parks and other amenities). This is a huge missed opportunity in the case of major mixed-use projects that present many other opportunities for inclusive job and wealth creation.        This report aims to address this gap. It is motivated by the clear need for a different model for urban real estate development. But it is also motivated by the opportunity to establish a different model. Post-Covid, developers recognize that their downtown projects need to generate (not just rely on) urban vitality, which requires investing in the community. And leaders in city government and community organizations recognize the importance of a thriving downtown, and thus may be willing to collaborate in new ways with developers that are willing to invest in downtown projects.   In this report we lay out an industry-informed framework for how catalytic development projects can and should contribute to economic inclusion. We hope to (1) to inform and inspire other developers by highlighting practices that are working in real for-profit projects, (2) enable city governments and community organizations to make better calibrated and more comprehensive demands of developers, and (3) clarify the limitations of shaping for-profit development, so that city governments know where they need to develop their own capabilities (like public development authorities) to achieve their goals.

The Navy Yard, PIDC, and our development partners at Ensemble / Mosaic were featured in this Brookings Institution piece on how real estate developers can create more inclusive developments. Together, we crafted the Navy Yard Plan to create a new standard of equitable development through a comprehensive approach to equity focusing on: - Equitable Development: 45-50% of development, construction, and operations contracts will be awarded to minority- and women-owned companies. - Inclusive Retail: 25% of retail space will be devoted to minority- and women-owned businesses at subsidized rates. - Quality, Accessible Jobs & Training Opportunities: Expansion of Navy Yard Skills Initiative program to connect unemployed and under-employed Philadelphians with jobs at Navy Yard companies. Ensemble/Mosaic's Navy Yard Building Better Foundation which invests in the professional development of minority- and women-owned firms and the minorities and women who are located in or work at the Navy Yard by providing access to education, job training, capital mentorship, and wealth creation opportunities. - Affordable Housing: Bringing residential and retail to the Navy Yard with Ensemble/Mosaic’s 109-acre mixed-use development. For the first time, the public will be able to live and shop at the Navy Yard with the planned: 3,900 apartment units with a commitment of 15% of apartments will be offered at affordable rates (up to 120% AMI). - Expanded Transit: Driving equity by increasing accessibility for all in and around the Navy Yard will be achieved through additional public transit options including expanded public transit, dedicated bike lanes, pedestrian-only streets and plazas, and a new gateway at Broad Street connecting Philadelphians to quality jobs, housing, and public amenities at the Navy Yard.

The Affordable Housing Crisis: Overcoming Zoning and Permitting Challenges In my previous posts, we've discussed the urgent need to rethink how we build homes and the critical role of builders and developers. Today, let's dive into one of the most persistent hurdles in affordable housing: zoning laws and permitting delays. Zoning laws and permitting processes are notorious for creating significant delays and adding costs to housing projects. These regulatory hurdles often slow down development and can discourage innovation. However, there are ways to navigate these challenges and even turn them into opportunities. 1. Streamlined Permitting Processes: Some cities are adopting streamlined permitting processes to accelerate project approvals. For instance, pre-approved plans and faster review timelines can significantly reduce delays. This approach not only saves time but also reduces the uncertainty and financial risk associated with long approval processes. 2. Flexible Zoning Regulations: Cities like Portland and Minneapolis have implemented flexible zoning regulations to encourage the development of affordable housing. By allowing for higher density housing and reducing restrictions on ADUs, these cities are making it easier for developers to build cost-effective housing solutions. 3. Innovative Approaches to Compliance: Leveraging technology and innovative construction methods can also help. For example, using standardized components that comply with national building codes can streamline inspections and approvals. This not only speeds up the process but also ensures consistent quality and safety. While these solutions show promise, the reality is that zoning and permitting remain significant barriers. This is where innovative solutions can make a real difference. Imagine a system designed to work within existing regulatory frameworks, making it easier for developers to get projects approved and completed quickly. By integrating such a system could simplify the compliance process and reduce the time and cost associated with traditional building methods. This approach would not only address the current challenges but also set the stage for a more efficient and effective housing development process. What are your thoughts on how we can further streamline zoning and permitting to accelerate affordable housing development? hashtag#AffordableHousing hashtag#ConstructionInnovation hashtag#HousingCrisis hashtag#BuilderEmpowerment hashtag#ZoningReform hashtag#PermittingSolutions

Tom’s take on Calgary’s Blanket Residential Zoning initiative. Nowhere has it been proven that Residential Blanket Zoning effectively addresses affordable housing shortcomings. So why would the City of Calgary wish to adopt this divisive policy? The $250M ‘accelerator’ seed funding offered by the eastern Laurentian LiberalNDP Federal government to the City of Calgary, has little to do with providing more affordable housing. Rather, the strings attached to the generous funding primarily relate to abolishing ‘privilege’ - specifically white (i.e. me) - and prairie pragmatism that has informed local residential planning / bylaws for over 100 years. The Leftist majority in Calgary City Council are seduced by this money and ideological purpose. City Bureaucrats just want the money to supplement already-generous municipal budgets and increased job opportunities. I declined my opportunity for a 5 minute presentation to the recent Public Open House, not wishing to waste my time on a process and federal / municipal funding transference, that will likely be stopped in its tracks by forthcoming UCP legislation. The accompanying image to this post, portrays the hope and spirit of the post-WW2 boomer cohort towards residential housing, idealized in the 1953 New Yorker and a concurrent aerial view of my community under construction, Glendale. Yes, urban planning visions have changed over the past 70 years. However, woke and DIE-inspired blanket zoning isn’t where we should be heading…

Exciting news for Downtown Albuquerque's housing development! New legislation introduced at the City Council’s March 4 meeting aims to accelerate construction projects focusing on permanent housing within the Downtown Center. The resolution, championed by City Councilor Joaquín Baca, prioritizes construction projects ranging from single-family homes to mixed-use developments in the Downtown core. Mayor Tim Keller’s administration designed the resolution to waive certain fees and expedite site plan reviews, fostering a more favorable environment for developers. This initiative not only streamlines the permitting process but also addresses Albuquerque’s affordable housing crisis while supporting Downtown revitalization post-pandemic. The proposed two-year pilot program underscores a commitment to ongoing development efforts, aligning with the city's comprehensive plan for high-density, mixed-income housing near job centers and transit options. As the bill advances to the Land Use, Planning, and Zoning Committee for review, public input remains crucial. Stay tuned for updates on this transformative endeavor shaping the future of Downtown Albuquerque! #DowntownDevelopment #AffordableHousing #AlbuquerqueCommunity https://lnkd.in/g-9rpQx2

Improving local education and economic mobility outcomes requires cross-sector collaboration, but too often, the private sector is left out of the equation or given limited guidance on how to contribute to cross-sector partnerships. Thankfully my friend, Ryan Donahue, and his colleagues at The Brookings Institution recently released a report that offers real estate developers actionable strategies to more effectively contribute to cross-sector, inclusive economy efforts. This report is especially apropos for my #Nashville #Memphis and #Chattanooga development folks!

https://lnkd.in/gh74CwUG City of Vancouver announces changes for Transit Orientated Areas prior to the June 30th deadline. Some key points below. Tier 1 inner radius of the 27 TOAs emanating from SkyTrain stations across Vancouver, the minimum allowable density be increased from the legislation’s baseline of 5.0 FAR to 5.5 FAR. City staff recommend that this expanded Tier 1 allowance be expanded to not just residential uses, but also proposals with 100% commercial space, such as office and hotel towers.  TOA would need to set aside at least 20% of the residential units at below-market rents or at least 30% of the units for social housing. In exchange, such rezonings will not have cash community amenity contribution (CAC) and proforma review requirements, with a CAC exemption provided for these inclusionary housing projects City staff are recommending that the same strict tenant relocation and protection policies made for the Broadway Plan be applied to all TOAs. Once the redevelopment is complete, the original tenants have the right of first refusal to return at the same or lower rent. It is anticipated that the majority of TOA sites will need to provide significant infrastructure upgrades, which will be identified on a site-by-site basis and secured through the rezoning process,” states City staff.

The proposal would be one of the most ambitious rezonings of any city in the US. Cambridge City Councilors Burhan Azeem and Sumbul Siddiqui want to legalize six-story apartment buildings by-right citywide, meaning any housing development up to that height that fits other zoning parameters would not need city zoning approval. In effect, the proposal would essentially scrap the city’s current neighborhood-by-neighborhood zoning scheme for anything six stories or shorter. It would also, at least symbolically, make Cambridge the first city in Massachusetts to end single-family zoning as the default for housing construction. But the proposal is sure to be controversial. Read the full story:

Leduc! We need your input, again! The Urban Centre Redevelopment Plan (UCRP) project will create a statutory plan that guides redevelopment and new investments in Leduc’s Urban Centre. If you have ideas about the future of Leduc’s Urban Centre – we want to hear from you! The City of Leduc is currently in the planning phase of the project, and is seeking feedback from residents, businesses, and community groups on draft plan components that were developed using input received during the first round of public engagement back in May 2023. Your feedback will confirm the plan's direction to ensure that future changes support the area's vision. Residents can complete the online survey before it closes on April 1, 2024, to provide direction on three components of the plan: - Vision: An aspirational statement that describes what we want the Urban Centre to be like in 20 years. - Guiding principles: Overarching concepts with objectives stating how they will be achieved. - Themes: Topics that will influence policy direction. Future changes to the Urban Centre could include: - Preserving land or buildings - Rehabilitating, removing, constructing, or replacing buildings - Establishing, improving, or relocating roads or public utilities - Enhancing the public realm and activating open spaces The purpose of the first project phase (visioning) was to gain a baseline understanding of community conditions and prepare a city-wide vision for the plan. After this second phase is complete, the last phase will focus on gathering input on the final draft plan, completing legislated plan referrals, and presenting to City Council for decision and implementation. The survey closes April 1! Click it! https://lnkd.in/gCMttkiU