ABSTRACT
Well-established zoning mechanisms like setbacks, height limits, and open-space requirements can be used creatively to guide development in special zoning districts and in overlay zones which reinforce historic district designations. New York City's Lincoln Square Zoning District is an example. Design guidelines can also become part of property agreements when a government agency or a private master developer sells a parcel of land to a developer or an individual owner, as shown in an example from Pittsburgh. Any development on such a property must follow the guidelines which the buyer has agreed to as part of the purchase. Site plans for all development, for planned unit developments, and for traditional neighborhood developments should require design review and approval by the planning authority and the local legislature. A subdivision plan which complies with the zoning should still require review and approval by the planning authority. All urban design concepts implemented by design review will be most effective if they are clearly articulated in a published book of standards and examples. A well-designed city has streetscape design standards which are used for all new installations and maintained consistently. The need to make room for green infrastructure, accommodate more bicycles and other personal forms of transport like scooters, and adjust to the introduction of driverless cars and delivery vehicles will mean that achieving a coherent design for the streetscape is going to become both more difficult and more important.
