Participants will explore the differences between planning, zoning, and building codes, and learn how zoning categories such as residential, commercial, industrial, and mixed-use impact property use and development potential. The course also covers variances, nonconforming uses, and how to interpret zoning maps and GIS tools. Attendees will examine how comprehensive plans, redevelopment corridors, transit-oriented development, and economic development zones shape future growth and influence real estate decisions. The session concludes with a look at opportunity zones and how emerging development trends can create both challenges and opportunities for practitioners.

Instructor: Patrick Hewitt, AICP; 1.5 hours credit requested.  Please contact naylsworth@akronclevelandrealtors.com with questions.

 

Patrick Hewitt, AICP, is a Planning Manager in charge of Strategy *& Development with the Cuyahoga County Planning Commission.  He has more than 15 years of experience in community planning across Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Columbus, and in his current role has led transformative projects that have shaped the future of Cuyahoga, County.  Patrick has directed major initiatives, including more than a dozen community plans, a countywide Transit-Oriented Development Zonin Study, and a Single-Family Zoning Analysis.  These planning processes have resulted in updated zoning regulations, community branding campaigns, park vibrant communities, Patrick brings expertise on placed-based design and community revitalization.  Patrick earned his bachelor's degree from Denison University and a master's City & Regional Planning from the Ohio State University.