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City ready to revamp zoning code

Vacant building on Seneca Street in the Larkin District ready for rehab
WBFO News photo by Eileen Buckley
Vacant building on Seneca Street in the Larkin District ready for rehab

By Eileen Buckley

Buffalo, NY – The City of Buffalo says it is time to change a very outdated zoning code. The comprehensive overhaul of the city's zoning code will be the first time in 59 years.

Click the audio player above to hear Eileen Buckley's full story now or use your podcasting software to download it to your computer or iPod.

Mayor Brown announcing a major revamping of the zoning code. It guides what gets built in Buffalo and where. Brown calls it Buffalo's DNA. Brown announced the major revamping of the zoning code surrounded by area community and business leaders. They stood along Seneca Street in the City's historic Larkin District. That's where developer Howard Zemsky has invested in old buildings.

As Zemsky stood on Seneca street across from another building he purchased, he says the current zoning code is very outdated.

The Mayor is calling on the Common Council to approve a Chicago-based planning consultant to work with the city to redo the zoning code. The City wants to hire Camiros. Jacque Gourgeuchon is principal consultant. He's anxious to begin work.

The Mayor says the new code will finally match the community's vision. Changing the zoning code will make it easier to develop neighborhoods closer to jobs and services. It will also streamline and simplify the regulatory process to support Buffalo economic development and housing.

The zoning code will be named the New Buffalo Green Code. The Mayor is calling on all citizens across the City to participate in the revamp process.