Key to the City

Wrapping up the 2024 season of Booked on Planning was an episode with Sara Bronin, author of “Key to the City: How Zoning Shapes Our World.” Sara offers a nuanced perspective on the role of zoning in city planning, advocating for strategic improvements rather than complete abolition. She discusses how zoning, when applied effectively, can be a catalyst for vibrant and adaptable neighborhoods, particularly in cities like Nashville and Chicago, where cultural resurgence is on the rise. Through her lens, we gain a deeper understanding of zoning’s impact on cultural, environmental, and urban dynamics.

One of the key topics Bronin delves into is the concept of “frozen neighborhood syndrome,” where outdated zoning regulations hinder community growth and adaptation. By revisiting and revising these codes, cities can overcome stagnation and promote development that aligns with contemporary needs and aspirations. This approach calls for incremental changes and comprehensive revisions rather than radical shifts, acknowledging the historical and political complexities of zoning.

Her book further explores how zoning transcends private domains to revolutionize public spaces. Drawing inspiration from Hartford’s pioneering zoning reforms, Bronin highlights the powerful potential of integrating zoning with broader city planning initiatives. This integration can lead to more equitable and sustainable urban development, addressing issues like urban agriculture and public space regulation. By examining case studies and historical figures such as Robert Moses, the book challenges readers to envision a future where zoning plays a central role in crafting inclusive and dynamic cityscapes.

Key to the City also emphasizes the importance of adaptability in zoning practices. By examining the success stories of mixed-use zoning in cities like Nashville and Chicago, Bronin illustrates how cultural venues can flourish with supportive zoning laws. The flexibility of zoning codes is crucial in responding to societal changes, as demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic. This adaptability extends to environmental considerations, where zoning can significantly impact water consumption and sustainability. The contrasting zoning codes of Scottsdale and Tucson, one requiring water intensive sod versus waterwise landscaping, serve as case studies, highlighting the environmental implications of zoning decisions.

Throughout the book, Bronin advocates for a more holistic understanding of zoning’s influence. By moving beyond the traditional focus on housing, she reveals how zoning can impact transportation, cultural vibrancy, and environmental sustainability. The book calls on readers to rethink zoning’s role in urban planning and consider its potential to shape the cities of tomorrow.

Listen to Episode