Infill Development in Plain English
What is Infill Development?
Infill development is the process of developing vacant or under-used parcels in otherwise built-up areas where infrastructure is in place. Most communities have significant numbers of vacant parcels within jurisdictional boundaries which, for various reasons, have been passed over in the normal course of urbanization. In addition, some developed parcels within built up areas have potential for additional development. Although developed with one or more buildings (or with land uses such as a parking lot) some of these parcels contain sufficient land area to support other structures and/or land uses. It may be possible to divide and further develop these properties, as long as issues or conditions that have kept these parcels from being fully developed are addressed. Infill development results in a more efficient use of land and existing infrastructure such as streets and public utilities. Ideally, it achieves compact land use patterns and densities high enough to support improved transportation choices and public services, as well as a wider variety of commercial services, cultural events, and other amenities. Maximizing use of existing public facilities should lower the per capita costs of providing and maintaining services.
Infill Development in Washington
Washington State adopted its Growth Management Act to address problems associated with the spread out patterns of growth that have predominated in recent decades. Increased traffic congestion, overstretched public facilities and increased infrastructure costs, loss of agricultural lands, open space and other resources, and even reduced physical activity and community health are typically associated with such patterns. Washington communities that plan under the GMA have designated urban growth areas (UGAs) where urban development is encouraged. (All cities are included within UGAs.) Growth that is urban in character is not permitted outside of UGAs, restricting the overall amount of land that is available for urban development. The reduced urban land supply has created new interest in infill development opportunities in central and suburban cities alike. At the same time, UGA designation and infill opportunities relieve growth pressures on rural and resource lands.
Rather than focus on the piecemeal development of individual lots, a successful infill development program should focus on achieving complete, well-functioning neighborhoods and centers. Infill development should be designed to fit the existing context, if it is to gain neighborhood acceptance. A cooperative partnership between government, the development community, financial institutions, non-profit organizations, neighborhood organizations and other resources is essential to achieve infill success.
Resources
- Infill Development: Completing the Community Fabric, MRSC - Includes links to guidebooks, articles, sample programs and ordinances.
- RCW 43.21C.229 - Infill development - Categorical exemptions from (SEPA) chapter.
- Filling in the Spaces: Ten Essentials for Successful Urban Infill Housing (
), The Housing Partnership, 11/2003.