Perceptions toward Upzoning: A Parcel-Level Analysis of Public Sentiments toward the Minneapolis 2040 Plan

Abstract

Zoning change typically draws significant public opposition, especially when it facilitates the construction of multifamily homes. Yet, in recent years, new pro-density political constituencies have emerged who advocate for denser development. This article analyzes public sentiment toward the Minneapolis 2040 rezoning where pro-density forces were highly active and emerged victorious. After qualitatively coding public comments, we use spatial cluster analysis and ordinal regression to examine what factors predict pro-density sentiment. We find that pro- and anti-density constituents cluster differently in space and that a few parcel-level characteristics, notably house typology, are the best predictors of sentiment.