Members of the community were able to view plans related to CodeNEXT at public meetings in 2016.[/caption]

WHAT WE REPORTED Austin’s land development code, last written in 1984, has been the focus of scrutiny for years. There are several overlays and contradicting rules that make it difficult for developers to take on new projects and property owners to renovate their homes or business. CodeNEXT is the official rewrite of that code, and will follow the vision laid out by Imagine Austin, the city’s comprehensive plan.

THE LATEST In November, city staff and its CodeNEXT consultants laid out an official timeline for the implementation of the new code. The timeline shows heavy activity in 2017 with the adoption and implementation by Austin City Council expected to arrive in 2018.

WHAT'S NEXT City staff will release a text version of the new land development code on Jan. 30 to the public. This will be followed by the release of a visual map draft in April so the public can see exactly how the code applies to different sections and neighborhoods in the city. The draft will then go through a series of reviews and possible amendments through the CodeNEXT Advisory Group, the Planning Commission, the Zoning and Platting Commission and finally, the council. According to the official timeline, the code will be adopted and implemented by 2018.

This story is one update from The January Issue. View the full list of 10 things to look for in 2017 here.