Las Cruces City Council has taken a significant step toward revamping the city’s development code by passing the ‘Realize Las Cruces’ initiative. In a meeting held last Tuesday, the council unanimously approved a transformative set of zoning and building ordinance changes, marking the first major overhaul in nearly a quarter-century.
Under the new codes, the city aims to increase housing densities, a move that comes as a response to the persistent housing inventory shortages. With Realize Las Cruces comes an eight-month grace period, a time during which, developers have the option to submit plans under either the old or the new code according to the City of Las Cruces.
By aligning with the broader Elevate Las Cruces comprehensive plan, the city is slated to have more latitude in architectural creativity and land utilization. Notably, there are now fewer restrictions on building heights and carport designs providing developers and homeowners with latitude previously unavailable. The Metropolitan Redevelopment Area sites are particularly targeted for growth and redevelopment initiatives.
The City Council also approved a Technical Manual which is set to improve the efficiency of the design process, with the new document existing separately from the development code itself to allow for more fluid updates. Meeting attendees, and those interested in the municipal proceedings, have been reminded that all council sessions are available for streaming on the City’s YouTube Channel, with the next work session scheduled for February 24 at the Council Chambers as outlined by the City of Las Cruces.
