Ground Floor Zoning

A GROUND FLOOR ZONING PLAN TO CREATE A VIBRANT PEDESTRIAN EXPERIENCE

In 2023, the City of Norfolk partnered with Yard & Co. to revitalize downtown by enhancing street-level frontages and creating a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. Detailed guidelines for retail, active, and neighborly frontages were proposed guide future development. Retail frontages prioritize commercial and social interaction with storefronts, dining patios, and more. Active frontages encourage regular human interaction, potentially incorporating residential elements like stoops and porches. Neighborly frontages, the minimum standard for all street-level buildings, ensure safety and enjoyment for pedestrians through elements like windows, planters, and seating. These frontage types were strategically mapped across Downtown Norfolk to encourage a welcoming, pedestrian-friendly environment, minimizing gaps in the pedestrian experience.


Services

Planning


Timeframe

2023


Client

City of Norfolk, Virginia

Location


Norfolk, Virginia

PROBLEM

How can we revitalize the downtown area with uncertain near-term retail demand and create a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly environment?

SOLUTION

Modify one-sized fits all ground floor retail zoning requirement to better reflect an array of welcoming ground floor treatments.

ACTION

Implement new code in coordination with incentives provided by downtown association.

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