Bellevue hosting four-day charrette on form-based code

Following two initial public meetings that focused on introducing the concept of form-based codes and developing a Visual Preference Survey for Bellevue, the City of Bellevue will host a four-day charrette that will feature public presentations and offer an opportunity for members of the public to interact with the consulting team – PlaceMakers LLC – on the Coding Bellevue initiative. The Coding Bellevue Charrette is the capstone of the form-based code development effort and will set the stage for the implementation of the region’s first form-based code. “When we meet on March 25 for the concluding presentation on Thursday night we’ll be well on our way towards a code that helps us do exactly what our motto says,” said Bellevue Mayor Jack Meyer referring to the city’s ‘Preserving the past, preparing for the future’ motto. At the two previous community meetings, Jeff Raser from Cincinnati-based Glaserworks helped lead the discussions that will hopefully shape the discussion of the upcoming four-day charrette. Form-based codes are a relatively new alternative to the more commonly utilized Euclidean Zoning Codes – named after Village of Euclid vs. Ambler Realty court case that in essence created the precendent for modern zoning codes.  Form-based codes focus on the the form and urban design of communities, as defined through Visual Preference Surveys at the community level, instead of the more rigid land use-based codes used elsewhere.  The benefit is seen in terms of improved urban design, and a more flexible zoning code that can adapt to a changing community more easily. At the charrette, PlaceMakers LLC and Glaserworks representatives will facilitate discussions and respond to participants’ ideas with drawings and plans. “This is about our future and the future of our children,” said Mayor Meyer.  “So we want to encourage everyone to come by and put in their two cents.” The public presentation will take place Thursday from 6pm to 7:30pm at the Callahan Community Center (located behind City Building at 616 Poplar Street).  Visit the project’s website for details on specific open studio times when the public is encouraged to drop by and provide input. Writer: Randy A. Simes Photography by Scott Beseler Stay connected by following Randy on Twitter @UrbanCincy