Over 100 local builders and general contractors participated in a public meeting held by the City of Brownsville where the latest innovations in planning and redevelopment were unveiled.

The City discussed Brownsville’s new Unified Development Code, which streamlined land development codes and reduced the number of zoning districts, among many other benefits. City leaders created the new Code to help the community better navigate a once confusing system.

 The City also unveiled a new Land Management Information System that will be implemented in 2021. The system will allow builders and developers to submit plans and permits, as well as track permits and make payments online. 

The meeting, held at the Brownsville Events Center on Wednesday, March 10, is part of a 90-day rollout of the new Code to help developers and builders get accustomed to the updated process. The meeting was led by Rick Vasquez, Director of Planning & Redevelopment, and Omar Ochoa, Chief Building Official. The meeting abided by all public health guidelines, including the use of masks. 

In September 2019, Brownsville city commissioners approved the hiring of planning consultants Freese and Nichols Inc. to lead the Code overhaul, along with Chance Sparks, President of the Texas chapter of the American Planning Association. 

To view the new Unified Development Code, visit https://www.cob.us/360/Planning-Redevelopment-Services.