The Strong Towns Podcast Escaping the Housing Crisis With Jeff Speck
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May 26, 2025 Jeff Speck, a city planner and author of 'Walkable City,' joins the conversation to explore urban housing solutions. He delves into the impact of incremental zoning reforms and shares innovative financing strategies like Tax Increment Financing to revive stagnant neighborhoods. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of community engagement and adaptable urban planning. With real-world examples, Speck advocates for mixed-use developments and critiques traditional zoning laws, showcasing the potential for vibrant, walkable communities.
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Design and Evolution of Rosemary Beach
- Rosemary Beach was designed in phases, with Jeff Speck managing the southern half under Andres Duany's guidance.
- It showcases a more finished, mature state compared to Seaside, which evolved more gradually over time.
Mini Tax Increment Financing
- Cities can finance small-scale, affordable housing using mini tax increment financing on vacant lots.
- This approach dedicates increased tax payments to assist down payments, reducing risk for local governments.
Benefits of Land Value Taxation
- Land value taxation encourages development by taxing land, not buildings, removing incentives to keep lots vacant.
- This dynamism in land use can reduce the need for complex financing incentives like TIF.
