HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Land Bank Board of Trustees will receive a report from architecture students at the University of Kansas regarding how to best use vacant lots for infill in the city as part of their meeting on Tuesday. The report says that the Land Bank should consider several factors when deciding whether or not to buy a lot.
When considering a lot for Land Bank Acquisition, the report suggests they ask:
1. Is it close to any amenities? (Schools, parks, grocery stores, shopping)
2. Is it nearby any development in progress that could increase the lot’s development potential?
3. Is the site in a populated area?
4. Will the lot be low cost to prepare for development? (free of excessive volunteer trees, soil contamination, existing foundations, etc.
5. Is the lot near other vacant lots that could be developed simultaneously (or grouped together for larger developments)?
6. What incentives or rebates apply to the lot?
7. Is the lot at least 35’ wide and can side yard setbacks be altered in the area? (There is a prototype at 418 E. Avenue G for an example in building on narrow lots)
8. Is the lot in a residentially zoned district? If not, can the zoning be altered?
9. Is there a connection to downtown? (development near downtown will encourage business growth and sustainability)
10. Is the lot outside of floodplain area and outside of suspected brine well areas?
According to the report, answering yes to most or all of these questions indicates a lot with strong development potential that should be acquired by the Land Bank.
Large lots (70’ or greater in width) can be considered for multi-family housing or higher density development, rather than single family residences.
The report also gives some ideas on what to do with lots that are too small to develop by themselves, suggesting things like additional community gardens and nature playgrounds.
Strategies for watershed management are also discussed along with the potential development of additional community plazas where lots already are in proximity to other amenities.
The Hutchinson Land Bank Board of Trustees meets Tuesday at 2 p.m. in the Hutchinson City Hall Executive Conference Room at 125 E. Avenue B.
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