During a recent government meeting in Kernersville, officials discussed proposed amendments to downtown parking regulations aimed at alleviating challenges faced by local businesses. The Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) currently imposes strict off-street parking requirements that have hindered growth and accessibility in the historic downtown area.

Catherine Garner, a staff member, presented the proposed changes, highlighting that the existing parking requirements often do not accommodate the realities of older buildings that occupy entire lots or lack sufficient space for additional parking. The amendments seek to provide more flexibility, particularly for properties within the central historic core, which have been significantly affected by these regulations.

The proposed changes include defining the downtown core for parking purposes, differentiating between buildings that occupy entire lots and those that do not, and establishing new standards for existing buildings and new constructions. Notably, buildings that encompass the entire lot would not be required to provide off-street parking, while those that do not would have to meet dimensional standards without a minimum or maximum parking space requirement.

Additionally, the amendments propose a 50% reduction in minimum parking requirements for new constructions, allowing developers to better align parking availability with their anticipated needs. This approach aims to encourage new businesses to establish themselves in the downtown area without the burden of excessive parking mandates.

The meeting also addressed community outreach efforts, including a public information session held at the Senior Botanical Gardens, where stakeholders expressed strong support for the proposed changes. The Planning Board has recommended approval of the ordinance, which is seen as a significant step towards revitalizing downtown Kernersville and enhancing its appeal to new businesses.

Mayor and council members acknowledged the ongoing discussions surrounding parking issues and expressed optimism that these amendments would facilitate a more accommodating environment for businesses, ultimately benefiting the community as a whole. The proposed changes are expected to be voted on in the coming weeks, marking a pivotal moment for downtown development in Kernersville.