New Statewide “Climate-Friendly & Equitable Communities” Rules

To help Oregon meet its climate pollution goals, the Oregon Dept of Land Conservation & Development (DLCD) believes more development will need to occur in urban areas where residents, workers, and visitors are less dependent upon single vehicle trips. The state acted on that by adopting Climate-Friendly and Equitable Communities (CFEC) rules on July 21, 2022. Those rules include a requirement that cities within Oregon’s eight metropolitan areas, which includes the Rogue Valley and of course Eagle Point, establish “Climate-Friendly Areas” (CFA’s) where people can meet most of their daily needs without having to drive - by increasing housing density near a mix of jobs, businesses, services and transportation options. 

The first phase of the implementation process is underway now.  This involves determining CFA location(s) in each city by the end of 2023.  Eagle Point’s CFA will likely be in our downtown area since our Town Center Plan adopted way back in 2007 promotes development somewhat consistent with the CFEC mandate.  It already allows for mixed uses and higher densities compared to other areas of the city.  The second phase is to amend the city’s comprehensive plan, zoning regulations and development standards to reflect the CFA land use and mobility goals by the end of 2024.  

The following information from DLCD provides additional details.  If you’re curious about  what all this means for Eagle Point, contact Mike Upston, Community Development Director, 541-826-4212, ext 111.  

Click  HERE for more information.