Valuing the New Urbanism – The economics of great places: Aug 30, 2010

By Ian Gillis

As developers and consultants dedicated to the creation of walkable, mixed use, mixed income places, we are often confronted by the argument that such development types cost more and are not what is wanted by the marketplace. On the contrary, studies show that creating a great place also creates value. Click here for full story

“Best of the Best” Unique Retail Concepts Aug 30, 2010

By Keith McCoy

When developing a mixed use town center or helping to revitalize a main street district, Urban Community Partners looks for the very “best of the best” retail shops to create activity and provide high quality services or products which adds value to the overall mix and vitality of a commercial neighborhood. Click here for full story

Form Based Codes, a Developers perspective: Apr 06, 2010

By Keith McCoy

The use of Form Based Codes (FBC’s) as a means to reform zoning codes and to implement Smart Growth development patterns is gaining national momentum and strong interest from the development community Click here for full story

Town Papers – A Great Public Outreach Tool Apr 06, 2010

Keith McCoy

Most of our projects have involved new and/or traditional planning and design concepts that need to be clearly explained and often local newspaper articles don’t get it right. Click here for full story

Cities respond to budget crisis – seek new revenue streams: Apr 06, 2010

By Ian Gillis

More and more Cities are facing structural budget deficits as a result of reduced revenues due to lack of new construction, shrinking tax receipts and reduced economic activity. Several are going to a “City led” model for effective redevelopment of key properties. Click here for full story