Crafton Borough Considers Zoning Updates to Support Thrive Plan Goals

The Crafton Borough Zoning Education Session held on July 16, 2025, focused on the critical role of zoning in local governance and community development. The session aimed to inform residents about zoning laws and their implications for land use, safety, and community welfare.

The meeting began with an overview of zoning as a legal tool that local governments in Pennsylvania utilize to protect public health and safety. Zoning regulations dictate how land can be used, what can be built, and where these developments can occur. The speaker emphasized that zoning helps maintain harmony within neighborhoods by preventing incompatible land uses, such as factories next to residential areas.

Participants were informed that Crafton Borough's zoning is part of a broader set of ordinances that govern various aspects of community life, including building codes, property maintenance, and business regulations. The speaker highlighted the importance of these codes in ensuring safety and quality of life for residents, noting that they help prevent blight and maintain property values.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the evolution of zoning practices. Historically, zoning was used to separate different land uses and, at times, to enforce social inequalities. However, contemporary zoning practices are shifting towards promoting community engagement and revitalization. The speaker pointed out that modern zoning aims to support mixed-use developments, enhance walkability, and protect natural and historic resources.

The session also referenced the Thrive Plan, adopted by Crafton in 2017, which serves as a framework for the borough's zoning updates. This plan reflects community priorities, including addressing blight, strengthening the local business environment, and enhancing walkability. The ongoing Zoning Ordinance Update Project, initiated in 2022, aims to align zoning regulations with the goals outlined in the Thrive Plan.

In conclusion, the Crafton Borough Zoning Education Session underscored the importance of zoning as a tool for shaping community development. By updating zoning ordinances to reflect community needs and aspirations, Crafton aims to foster a vibrant, safe, and inclusive environment for its residents. The session provided valuable insights into how zoning can be leveraged to achieve long-term community goals.