Contact: Donnie Turlington
Phone: 336-373-3769

Development Services Celebrates Grand Opening 
City using technology to make it easier to file and review building plans

GREENSBORO, NC – (January 3, 2011) – The City of Greensboro is readying to assist the local construction business with the grand opening of its Development Services Center, 300 W. Washington St., on Monday, January 3. With a goal of making it easier for contractors and residents to do business with the City, Development Services’ use of technology makes the building plan submittal and review process more efficient.

According to City Manager Rashad Young, the Development Services Center comes as part of the City’s strategic effort to improve and enhance its services to the community and support economic development. “We’re taking a look at all of the services we provide to find ways to enhance those offerings and, with Development Services, we have increased our ability to get Greensboro’s residents and contractors to work as quickly as possible.”

Statistics compiled by Development Services indicate the number of structural and mechanical permits applied for in 2010 increased by 24 percent over 2009, while commercial and residential building plans submitted for review increased by 56 percent. While those plans were submitted in person in the past, the City developed an online portal for electronic plan submission that should streamline the process in 2011 and beyond. The portal virtually eliminates the previously required need for contractors to print 14 copies for submission to the City and makes the review and dissemination process easier.
 
In addition, Development Services’ all-in-one location that includes representatives from most City departments involved in the permitting and plan review process, also features a SMART Board interactive whiteboard. The technology allows City staff to meet as a group with developers and provide digital information related to the development potential for any land area in Greensboro. Residents can also visit Development Services to have their property or plans reviewed, obtain a digital or printed copy, and apply for all their building permits.

Development Services is located on the upper ground (UG) level of the Melvin Municipal Office Building and can be accessed via the main entrance to the building, which faces Washington Street. Designated parking is available in the City/County lot adjacent to the entrance.

For more information about Development Services, call 336-373-2155.

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The City works with the community to improve the quality of life for residents through inclusion, diversity, and trust. As the seventh largest employer in Greensboro, the City has a professional staff of 2,800 employees who maintain the values of honesty, integrity, stewardship, and respect. The City is governed by a council-manager form of government with a mayor and eight council members. For more information on the City, visit www.greensboro-nc.gov or call 373-CITY (2489).