Development Challenges Infill development has the potential to create transformational change in areas and districts that may currently be devoid of activity and investment. Infill development can reduce development pressure on outlying areas, reduce Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT), make significant contributions to quality of life and social health, as well as spur economic vitality. However, the nature and genesis of infill development is not without its own challenges, which may include: z Smaller parcels with fragmented ownership z Challenging environmental contexts z Increased costs associated with development z Challenging regulatory approval process In instances where more than one parcel of land is needed to provide the space for development, land assemblage is often the first challenge encountered. Fragmented ownership creates complexity in acquisition negotiations and can even entirely halt progress if the owner is unwilling to participate. Similarly, the acquisition cost is often significant in infill scenarios due to existing infrastructure investment. Challenging environmental contexts can present themselves in both physical and social contexts regarding infill development. Environmental contamination can serve as a significant impediment to development and can present itself in a variety of ways. Environmental contaminants can encumber a site even if that use wasn’t present on the site previously, but nearby or adjacent. Uses like gas stations, dry cleaners, and industrial production or processing can leech into soils and permeate into nearby parcels, as they don’t adhere to regulatory boundaries. However, even if environmental contaminants are present, remediation is certainly achievable. Federal, State, and Local agencies offer a wide array of tools, tax incentives, low interest loans and assistance programs to help resolve potential issues.
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