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UF students propose form-based code to preserve character and guide downtown growth
Summary
University of Florida graduate students presented a draft form-based code concept for Downtown Newberry, arguing it would prioritize building form, walkability and mixed uses over traditional single-use zoning.
A University of Florida urban planning class presented a form-based code concept to the City of Newberry commission Tuesday as a proposed alternative to single-use zoning in the downtown community redevelopment area (CRA).
"Form based code is especially helpful for small growing towns," said Dr. Abhinav Alexhin (as introduced), associate professor, adding that form-based codes "ensure that new building and public spaces fit the character and vision of the town rather than leading to scattered or disconnected development." Student JT Gehrman and a multidisciplinary team outlined transect-based zones (T3 periphery, T4 transition, T5 downtown core), placing form and building orientation ahead of prescriptive land uses.
The students said the approach aims to reinforce a compact, walkable core built around the historic railroad corridor, encourage mixed-use development, preserve local character through materials and scale standards, and reduce auto dependence. "It promotes walkability and a sense of place through clear standards by transects," Gehrman said. The presentation included examples and case studies (Littleton, Mass., and Green Cove Springs, Fla.) and recommended a pilot in the CRA before any citywide change.
Why it matters: Newberry's downtown has historically been a clustered commercial center that later shifted to auto-oriented uses. The students told commissioners that ongoing population growth and an FDOT one-way-pair project create a near-term opportunity to codify standards that would keep new development in scale with the downtown's historic character.
Commission reaction: Commissioners and staff thanked the students and asked procedural questions about follow-up. Stacy Hechtus, Community Development, said staff would continue studying form-based options as part of a larger land-development-code rewrite. The students volunteered to help with implementation materials and public outreach.
What happens next: Staff said a pilot study of the CRA and written recommendations could be folded into the city's comprehensive-plan update and the land-development-code rewrite. The commission did not take formal action on the presentation; it served as an informational introduction.
