Buildings higher than three stories could still be allowed in downtown Bloomington under proposed changes to the city code.
Bloomington Mayor John Hamilton’s office released a proposal last week that would tighten restrictions on building height and density for future projects. Hamilton says the changes wouldn’t prohibit tall buildings altogether.
“This ordinance will say 'time out,'" Hamilton says. "If you’re going to build a building that big, we need to make sure you’re moving in the direction that we want on these three areas of affordability, design, and sustainability.”
Hamilton says the proposed changes are in response to concerns from residents about the rapid growth in the downtown area.
The city is working on a new comprehensive master plan which is expected to be complete sometime next year. Hamilton says updating the city code would prevent developers from rushing to get approval before the comprehensive plan takes effect.
The Bloomington Plan Commission will vote on the proposed regulations Dec. 11.
