Ann Arbor's city council has approved a new set of design guidelines that could be implemented as soon as springtime

Critics call them "too vague" and proponents site flexibility - will Ann Arbor’s new design guidelines provide a palette for development that will stand the test of time?  As recently as a month ago, the city council approved a new set of guidelines outlining details such as building height, roof materials, window type and design, and pedestrian layouts.  Although guidelines have been determined they are not yet mandatory.  Council members hope they will provide a great forum for developers and city planners to easily work toward final approvals.

Interesting to note: several recent downtown projects, such as Loft 322 and Ashley Terrace, would not meet Ann Arbor’s new guidelines.  Loft 322 is cited by the council for poor design with a parking structure as the entrance.  However, developer Ed Shaffran says people wouldn’t buy a $700,000 condo with no parking and site restrictions plus various city constraints didn’t allow for any other practical options.  Shaffran’s story seems typical of the realistic struggle to make design fit all components necessary for success.

Many local developers are upset with a new potential set of hurdles and what they feel will bring a level of uncertainly and additional cost to the design process.  They worry not only about added expenses but also costly timing issues.

On the other hand, the plan was developed with several mechanisms designed specifically to make process fair for developers.  All decisions may be appealed at several levels if developers don’t initially get the outcomes they had hoped for.

Despite a bumpy reception, the City Council has high hopes for quality, timeless development.  New guidelines were designed at the city’s request by a nationally acclaimed downtown zoning consultant.     

Please contact Kathy Toth and Team for more information about Ann Arbor real estate.  

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