So how does revising zoning help pedestrians?
The defined goal of the zoning study currently is fourfold:
- To create improved access to public transportation and increase the city's pedestrian safety.
- To preserve the historic nature of certain neighborhoods and maintain their aesthetics.
- To simplify the current zoning code and make it more understandable and clear.
- To achieve housing density growth.
One example that can help here is to consider the parking space requirement in Atlanta. Currently, developers must allot one and a half spaces to every residential unit in a multi-unit building. However, in reality, many Atlanta residents have chosen to use alternate transportation, which means that the city could use much of this space for sidewalks and walkways.
The hope is that creating space for pedestrians will lead to increased pedestrian safety and walkability. This is a big step in the right direction; however, implementing a new code could take up to seven years.
If, in that time, you or a loved one sustain injuries in a pedestrian accident in Atlanta, speak with a car accident lawyer from the Law Office of Jason R. Schultz, P.C. Contact us today at 404-474-0804 to discuss your legal rights.