Strategy in Action

In 1994, the City of Fort Collins adopted a Development Moratoria to stem the rush of large chain “superstores” locating to the area. Superstores were defined as any building, or combination of buildings, intended to be used for retail sales and marketing that exceeded 80,000 square feet for a single occupancy tenancy. Concerned that the size and scale of superstores would present problems related to urban design and transportation, the city adopted a six-month moratorium on superstore  development. During the moratoria, the city prioritized reviewing the design, transportation, and other planning issues surrounding big-box retailers, and modified its planning and zoning rules. The ordinance remained in effect until January 1995.