Sustain Charlotte celebrates city council passing the Unified Development Ordinance (Press Release)

Charlotte, NC (Aug. 22, 2022) — Sustain Charlotte applauds Charlotte City Council for passing the Unified Development Ordinance. Monday’s historic vote will help shape how North Carolina’s largest city grows.

The UDO is a vital tool in enacting the Charlotte Future 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Notably, the UDO allows for the creation of more housing — which is needed now more than ever amid a housing crisis.

“Allowing duplexes and triplexes in areas that have traditionally been reserved only for single-family homes will increase Charlotte’s housing supply,” said Meg Fencil, Sustain Charlotte’s director of engagement and impact.

“Hopefully, this will lead to a broader range of housing prices, help more families live in the city, and increase neighborhood diversity.”

The UDO also reorganizes Charlotte’s zoning definitions, requires more green space in developments, bolsters tree canopy-preservation efforts, and changes parking standards, among other updates. These are all essential measures in creating a city that is less dependent on cars and is more welcoming to pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders.

Sustain Charlotte shares concerns about displacement in the city and encourages City Council to adopt anti-displacement strategies when they are proposed by the Neighborhood Equity and Stabilization (NEST) Commission. Displacement is already happening in many neighborhoods traditionally zoned only for single-family homes. More housing options across the city will help to provide additional homes within existing neighborhoods as Charlotte’s population grows.

About Sustain Charlotte: Sustain Charlotte is a 501(c)3 nonprofit helping to advance local sustainability through smart growth. Our dedicated staff and volunteers work collaboratively with residents, neighborhood organizations, government agencies, nonprofits, and businesses to solve the most critical challenges to our community’s long-term social, economic, and environmental health.