RESCHEDULED (Build Maine) PlaceCode: Advanced Code Writing Using the Maine PlaceCode Library
(RESCHEDULED TO 8/20) Join us for this Build Maine event!
Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Location: virtual
REGISTER NOW »10:00am-12:00pm
This class will focus on advancing code writing skills and is intended for existing and emerging code writers, such as municipal or regional planning staff, lawyers, planning consultants, and community advocates. Participants should have an enthusiasm for code writing and an interest in helping municipalities address local zoning challenges. This session is intended to train participants in the use of the PlaceCode toolbox, enlarge the pool of qualified code writers, and establish a network of code practitioners to share and problem solve.
Participants will develop public engagement and code writing skills, and will learn how to:
- Run a successful public engagement process.
- Advance local planning objectives through zoning changes.
- Provide staff and board trainings.
- Write and calibrate code within the PlaceCode framework.
This session will include reading assignments to be completed prior to the session; those will be sent to participants once they have registered.
Downtown leaders can help advocate for critical zoning changes by promoting this session and helping encourage local practioners to attend. This work has a direct impact on Main Streets and the neighborhoods that support them. Back in the 1970s many towns adopted low density zoning that has made it illegal to build in the pattern common to our traditional downtowns, in-town neighborhoods, and villages. As a result, it has been difficult to rehabilitate our downtowns, leading to the slow erosion of these walkable loveable places, with too many empty buildings and surface parking lots. Meanwhile, this same low-density zoning has made it easier to develop at the fringes of our communities in a spread out pattern, further pulling energy out of our downtowns. The PlaceCode provides a set of tools that can help Maine communities more easily update their zoning to unlock redevelopment in downtowns and in-town neighborhoods, and reduce development pressure on rural lands at the edges of communities. Main Street organizations can help champion this important work and bring people to the table.
Speakers:
Vanessa Farr is a leading planning expert with over 25 years of professional planning and development experience servicing the public and private sectors from the biggest cities to the smallest hamlets. Vanessa specializes in urban design, sprawl retrofit, placemaking, and outcome-driven zoning policy. Vanessa’s expertise integrates thoughtful engagement strategies and design thinking, bringing a new level of craftsmanship and lasting value to every plan
This webinar is brought to you by the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, Housing Opportunities Program, Maine Downtown Center, and Build Maine