HOUSINGNEWS REPORT
THE RISE OF INFILL DEVELOPMENT
State. The problem in California is that a 2017 study published by Berkeley University suggests that the need for 1.9 million housing units could be solved by infill development; however, the carbon footprint of such a massive construction projects become a concern in a state where greenhouse gas emissions are subject to considerable restrictions. Still, when considering the carbon footprint of sprawl coupled with the increased driving that suburban and exurban neighborhoods would create, infill development is becoming more welcomed by communities in California. The Dynamics of Infill Development As municipalities, developers, and residents are looking towards a more effective utilization of land, the responsibility falls on the designers, architects, and civil engineers to make this work. Though the concept of infill development seems simple, the
“As municipalities, developers, and residents are looking towards a more effective utilization of land, the responsibility falls on the designers, architects, and civil engineers to make this work. Though the concept of infill development seems simple, the dynamics are quite complex. What should be noted about these types of infill projects is that they present greater complexity than building a new-gated community in the outskirts of town.”
Acceptance of Infill Development What is interesting about the current wave of infill development is that it is being embraced with enthusiasm in many urban centers. Planning committees are very active fielding objections from neighbors and local business owners. Some municipalities, especially those with historic character, often require developers to maintain that character throughout the transformation. Municipalities offer bonuses for developers who build affordable housing into their
projects. Most municipalities require a public use element within the new development. Residents often become welcoming of such developments. There is always the inconvenience of construction, but neighborhoods are revitalized, property values rise, and local businesses prosper. Positive reactions to infill development may be a bit more difficult to elicit in housing markets such as California, and this is despite the desperate need for housing solutions in the Golden
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MARCH 2018 | ATTOM DATA SOLUTIONS
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