City Hosting Open House for Mixed-Use Zoning Recommendations

The City of Sioux Falls will host a public open house on Monday, March 20, 2023, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Downtown Library to share the Planning and Development Services department’s recommendations for three new zoning districts within the city’s core neighborhoods. Staff will be available to answer questions, and a short presentation will begin at 6:30 p.m.

The recommended zoning districts allow for mixed-use concepts like combination residential and commercial spaces—or middle housing opportunities like duplexes, fourplexes, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) throughout core neighborhoods. The districts also address building height, parking constraints, setback, infrastructure, and land availability, which can be development challenges.

“The goals with these recommendations are to promote denser housing options in walkable neighborhoods and alleviate development challenges, all while being mindful of the existing single-family housing stock,” said Adam Roach, Urban Planner for Planning and Development Services. “We are trying to provide appropriate transitions that complement existing development and walkable mixed-use and multifamily residential where appropriate.”

The department’s recommendations are not a City-initiated rezone. The zoning districts would be additional development options an applicant could request via public hearing. Following the open house, the department will bring the recommendations forward for City Council and the Planning Commission’s consideration.

The zoning districts carry several possible benefits, including:

• Expand the mix of housing and mixed-use opportunities in walkable areas or those served by the bike trail, bike routes, or transit.
• Densify underutilized parcels already served by existing infrastructure.
• Act as a vehicle for neighborhood stabilization, redevelopment, and revitalization.
• Enhance an area’s unique identity and development potential (village centers, locations near bike paths, and institutions).
• Make more efficient use of existing infrastructure in the urban core.
• Increase the local tax base.
• Create walkable neighborhood services and amenities.

The three new zoning districts are envisioned in transitional areas around heavily trafficked streets within the interstate beltway, which is generally north of 41st Street, east of Interstate 29, west of Interstate 229, and south of Russell Avenue.