Parking Minimums
Definition
Zoning requirements mandating minimum parking spaces for developments (e.g., 2 spaces per apartment). Increases costs, wastes land, encourages driving, and prevents development in walkable areas. Many cities eliminating these outdated rules.
Louisville Context
Louisville requires excessive parking: 2 spaces per apartment, 1 per 200 sq ft retail, etc. Result: parking lots dominate, development costs increase $30,000+ per unit, walkable development impossible. Example: a small apartment building might need more land for parking than housing. Dave eliminates parking minimums near transit, in downtown/commercial areas, and for affordable housing. Developers can still provide parking but aren’t forced to overbuild it.
Why It Matters
Parking mandates are government requiring developers to build more parking than needed, raising housing costs and wasting land. Near transit and in walkable areas, excessive parking prevents the urbanism that makes neighborhoods desirable. Let the market determine parking needs.
Dave’s Proposal
Eliminate parking minimums near TARC routes, in downtown/commercial districts, and for affordable housing. Allow market to determine parking needs. Promote shared parking and alternative transportation.