A planned housing development is a zoning tool that allows for greater flexibility in land use planning, administered through an application process. By combining different land uses and densities in a single development, PUDs can provide a unique opportunity to create affordable housing.

How PUDs work
Traditional land use planning often restricts land use to specific categories such as residential, commercial or industrial. This can limit the potential for innovative development and make it difficult to create housing for local workers. PUDs, on the other hand, allow for a mix of different uses within a single development, such as residential units, retail space and open green space. This flexibility can lead to more efficient land use, lower development costs and increased affordability.

Benefits of PUDs for residential construction
• Mixed density: By allowing for higher densities, PUDs can help reduce overall costs per unit. This is because the costs of infrastructure such as roads and utilities can be spread across a larger number of units.
• Common amenities: PUDs often include common amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, open spaces, and shared community buildings. These amenities can help lower the overall cost of living for residents.
• Innovative design: PUDs can encourage innovative design and development techniques. This can lead to more efficient use of space and lower construction costs.
• Mixed-use development: By combining residential, commercial and other uses, PUDs can create vibrant, walkable communities. This reduces residents’ reliance on cars, which can help reduce transportation costs and traffic congestion.

Challenges and considerations
While PUDs offer the opportunity to create housing for local workers, there are also some challenges to consider. One challenge is the possibility that PUDs will be used to create high-end luxury developments that do not help the local workforce housing crisis. Support for strict zoning and solid agreements with development organizations are necessary if a PUD tool is to be of use to a local workforce.
Another challenge is the need for careful planning and coordination. PUDs require careful consideration of factors such as density, land use, and infrastructure. Inadequate planning can have negative impacts on the surrounding community. There are many examples of successful PUDs that will be explored in upcoming posts.
PUDs are a valuable tool for creating housing for local workers and vibrant, efficient, and livable neighborhoods for all. By providing greater flexibility in land use planning, PUDs can help reduce development costs, increase density, and create vibrant, walkable communities. However, clear regulations, agreements, and careful planning are important to ensure that PUDs can be used as a successful tool for managing housing for all.

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Kiki Miller is a member of the Coeur d’Alene City Council and a founding member of the Housing Solutions Partnership.