A project geared to alter Portland code to streamline navigation of environmental zoning regulations for infrastructure projects, as well as support ongoing natural resource management, was greenlit by the City Council on Wednesday. A series of amendments will take effect July 1.
The council voted unanimously to adopt the Public Infrastructure Environmental Code Project. It amends the standards and procedures for development in the chapters of the zoning code (Title 33) that pertain to environmental zones (33.430, 33.465, and 33.475) to better address needed improvements to existing public infrastructure, as well as to address future infrastructure projects expected throughout the city in the coming years, a city staff report states.
Other zoning code amendments in the ordinance provide more streamlined approval processes for natural resource management by city staff, update some tree replacement and site enhancement requirements, update notice requirements, and address technical issues…