Smart Growth America and Form-Based Codes Institute Create Partnership

The Boards of Directors of the Form-Based Codes Institute (FBCI) and Smart Growth America (SGA) are pleased to announce a new strategic partnership between the two organizations. We’re proud to announce that FBCI has become a program of Smart Growth America (SGA), the highly regarded national organization that advocates for cities, towns, and neighborhoods that are economically prosperous, socially equitable, and environmentally sustainable. FBCI will continue to offer classes, technical assistance and other resources to communities and professionals interested in learning about form-based zoning codes—the regulatory framework for mixed-use, walkable urbanism.

“We are excited about this new partnership with such a reputable, cross-disciplinary organization and look forward to greater collaborative opportunities to assist municipalities across the country,” said Marina Khoury, partner at DPZ Partners and chair of the FBCI Board of Directors. “The two nonprofits share complimentary missions and audiences and we believe that both FBCI and SGA will benefit from the synergies that this partnership will bring.”

“FBCI brings to SGA a wealth of experience and expertise in form-based coding,” offered Scot Spencer, SGA board chair and Associate Director, Advocacy and Influence at the Annie E. Casey Foundation. “Form-based codes often serve as the regulatory framework for smart growth in communities across the country. We are pleased to be able to offer these additional resources to our partners and constituents.”

FBCI joins several other well-known SGA programs—the Governors’ Institute on Community Design, LOCUS, the National Complete Streets Coalition and Transportation for America, among others—each of which provide opportunities for leverage and partnership.

Marta Goldsmith, FBCI Executive Director, has joined the SGA staff and will continue in her role as director of the program.

Entries for Richard H. Driehaus Form-Based Codes Award Due March 16

The Form-Based Codes Institute at Smart Growth America is also pleased to announce the tenth annual award for achievement in the writing and implementation of form-based codes. Thanks to the generosity of the Richard H. Driehaus Charitable Lead Trust, FBCI and SGA will recognize exemplary form-based codes that have been adopted by localities.

A form-based zoning code fosters predictable built results and a high-quality public realm by using physical form—rather than separation of uses—as the organizing principle for the code.

Submissions are due on March 16th, 2018. Details can be found on the FBCI website, including the application form and instructions, previous winners, the 2018 Awards Jury, and eligibility requirements

Form-Based Codes