Advisory group flags utilities, engineering as barriers to 'missing‑middle' development

Oct 29, 2026

Members reported that infrastructure—sewer laterals, utilities, fire access—and market incentives, not just zoning rules, are preventing low‑intensity neighborhood redevelopment and the housing types the zoning code permits.

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The committee received a report from the missing‑middle working group outlining why zoning allowances have not translated into built missing‑middle housing. Members said utilities and engineering constraints—sewer lateral widths, fire access and utility placement—are frequently the practical barriers to achieving the densities the zoning code allows.

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