City Planning Commission endorses flexible parking regulations for central business district

The Harrisonburg Planning Commission has taken a significant step towards enhancing flexibility in the city’s central business district by approving a request to eliminate parking minimums for new developments. During the meeting on July 9, 2025, commissioners expressed strong support for the proposal, emphasizing its alignment with surrounding properties and the potential to adapt spaces for various uses, including housing and businesses.

Commissioner Finnegan highlighted the importance of this change, stating, “Alleviating some of the pressure on the buildings to provide their own parking helps to distribute it.” This sentiment was echoed by other members, who noted that the absence of strict parking requirements could attract a diverse range of tenants and businesses, ultimately benefiting the community.

The discussion also touched on traffic management, particularly regarding the Institute of Transportation Engineers' (ITE) trip generation manual. Concerns were raised about the limitations of current traffic impact analyses, with some commissioners suggesting that the existing framework assumes a car-centric approach to transportation. “The process is flawed,” one member remarked, pointing out that not all developments generate the same traffic patterns.

The commission voted unanimously to forward the proposal to the city council, with a favorable recommendation set for discussion on August 12. This decision marks a pivotal moment for Harrisonburg, as it seeks to foster a more adaptable and vibrant urban environment. The implications of this change could reshape the city’s landscape, encouraging innovative uses of space and potentially easing parking challenges in the bustling central district.