Event Details — How form-based codes can transform cities and towns (especially Houston): a free webinar

Houston Tomorrow and the Form-Based Codes Institute (FBCI) will present a brown-bag webinar on form-based codes on May 21st at noon. Form-based codes (FBCs) are an alternative to the zoning ordinances of the past half-century that created unsatisfactory results in many communities.

This will be the FBCI's first webinar, which is called "Learn How Form-Based Codes Can Transform Cities and Towns." Collaborating with New Urban News, FBCI designed this 90-minute session to provide an introduction to form-based codes, touching on why and how they are developed and used.

The FBC technique enables placemaking by focusing on form rather than separation of uses. Form-based codes describe what is desired instead of what is prohibited. They target the relationship between buildings and how they frame the public way by addressing building placement, height, elements and, to the degree desired, use. Well-written codes can shorten and simplify the approval process because the rules are clear and upfront. Codes are shorter, more concise, and organized for visual access and readability.

For more on how form-based codes my be useful in Houston, see this article by David Crossley.

This will be a live webinar with the opportunity to ask questions of the presenters: Dan Parolek, Bob Sitkowski and Bill Spikowski. Credits available through APA/AICP and AIA CES total 1.5 hours.

If you would like to attend the webinar at the Houston-Galveston Area Council, RSVP with your name, organization, phone number, and AIA membership number (if applicable) to Janice Rudd at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). There is no charge for attendance. Bring your own lunch.

If you would like to participate from another location, the cost for the weblink is $150, with a discounted rate for nonprofits and government officials of $75. You can register at: http://www.formbasedcodes.org/courses.html

The Form-Based Codes Institute (FBCI) was founded in 2004. The goals of the institute include:
• Setting standards for the practice of form-based coding;
• Educating relevant audiences about FBCs; and
• Creating a forum for discussion about and advancement of FBCs.

For more on form-based codes, please visit the website.

Thurs, May 21
12 - 1:30 pm
Houston-Galveston Area Council
2nd floor, Room A
3555 Timmons (just north of Richmond Ave.)
Houston, TX 77027