Mixed-Use

• Author: Tyler Adams
• Pages: 31-34

Part I: Remove Code Barriers 31

MIXE D-USE

Tyler Adams (author)

Jonathan Rosenbloom & Christopher Duerksen (editors)

INTRODUCTION

Mixed-use zoning permits a complementary mix of residential, commercial,

and/or industrial uses in a single district. Mixed-use zoning can take a variety

of forms, but often is categorized as one of three ty pes: vertical mixed-use,

horizontal mixed-use , and mixed-use walkable.1 Vertical mi xed-use allows for

a combination of dierent uses in the same building a nd most frequently the

non-residential uses occupy the bottom portion of the building, with the resi-

dential on top.2 Horizontal mixed-use allows distinct uses on separate parcels

to be combined in a particular a rea or district. is helps avoid the complexities

of combining uses that may have dierent safet y or regulatory requirements in

a single building.3 Mi xed-use walkable combine s vertica l mixed-use and hori-

zontal mixed-use, thus creatin g an area containing mixed-use buildings a s well

as distinct single-use buildings in close proximity to each other.4

Prior to the rise of the automobile and modern zoning practices, mixed-

use developments were the norm.5 Since the rise of classic Euclidean Zon-

ing, use segregation has been the norm and integrated land uses have been

relatively rare.6 e emergence of sust ainability and walkability as i mportant

factors in community development has led to a resurgence of mixed-used

zoning.7 Implementation of mixed-use zoning has evolved to include more

than just permitting mixed-use developments in certain districts. Local gov-

ernments are now creating mixed-use districts. is allows for a more wide-

spread integration of uses and the development of increasingly cohesive and

ecient communities.

EFFECTS

Mixed-use zoning can provide severa l important benets, including:

• Reducing c ombined housing a nd transportation co sts for household s

by providing diverse housing options and alternatives to automobile

travel;