Mixed-use development (MUD) is an urban or suburban approach to development that incorporates various commercial, cultural, institutional and residential functions within one walkable area. This form of development offers several benefits including increased economic opportunity, expanded housing options and lower transportation costs.
Community leaders should identify obstacles to market-ready mixed-use development and create opportunities for equitable engagement (see Resources). Communities may implement strategies that support diverse incomes and ages by including requirements like affordable housing or small business loan funding into their plans.
Adaptability
Mixed-use spaces’ flexible design enables their residents to easily adjust to changing needs, increasing the development’s sustainability and long-term viability. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, mixed-use developments were quickly and effectively reconfiguring services and spaces to meet community members’ health and wellbeing requirements while supporting local businesses and contributing to economic vitality.
These projects range from single buildings with retail shops on the ground floor and apartments above, to larger “urban village” developments that combine residential, retail, office, medical, recreational spaces all into a compact area – thus increasing walkability while decreasing infrastructure upgrades or investments costs.
Planning and building these types of projects can be more complex than other construction endeavors; developers must navigate zoning regulations, work closely with city jurisdictions to obtain necessary permits and approvals, address concerns from their communities about their proposed project, as well as secure their support.
Convenience
As homebuyers and renters look for convenience when selecting their next neighborhood home or rental unit, many prioritize mixed-use developments located close to schools, parks, cultural centers and restaurants as a top priority. They provide residents with a sense of community engagement and belonging.
Mixed-use developments provide retailers and restaurant owners with foot traffic that is beneficial to both establishments, while at the same time helping to build up an established customer base that can sustain themselves in times of economic downturns.
Navigating complex zoning regulations and infrastructure demands are integral parts of mixed-use development success, and McClure’s experts are available to help with these obstacles. Reach out for more information on how we can support your next mixed-use project: we can identify cost savings through scope analysis and vendor selection while aligning all aspects with your vision and goals.
Sustainability
Mixed-use buildings are increasingly designed with sustainability in mind, featuring green spaces and energy-efficient systems that help lower their carbon footprint while simultaneously improving livability.
Mixed-use developments provide their occupants with access to everyday necessities within walking distance, cutting back on car travel and fuel consumption. Furthermore, their mix of uses encourages social interactions among residents and visitors; creating a sense of community while combatting mental health issues like loneliness.
Mixed-use developments offer multiple revenue streams that help mitigate financial risk during economic downturns compared with single-use buildings, helping mitigate any possible economic fluctuations. But managing residential, retail, and commercial spaces while meeting sustainability criteria can be challenging.
Community
Mixed-use developments provide numerous community advantages, from social cohesion and environmental sustainability to economic opportunity. Mixed-use developments also encourage physical activity while placing residents nearer healthcare facilities and public amenities.
Mixed use projects provide more options and flexibility in daily lives, and reduce car use. Residing above shops and restaurants gives residents an exciting community without long commutes.
Residential and commercial spaces located nearby each other increase foot traffic, which in turn generates revenue and introduces local businesses to potential customers. Diversifying income streams helps cushion against economic fluctuations.
Local governments can take advantage of mixed-use development by including community visioning strategies and requirements into comprehensive plans (Williston 2020). They should also identify suitable locations for development as well as support community engagement efforts with outreach activities that collect feedback from residents.