Lower-rise mixed-use buildings and townhomes mixed with renovated industrial structures...narrower streets with better ped crossings and more trees...there is always something to nurture in an urban environment. The land is still pretty damn valuable, although on speculation...lowering the height (and therefore parking requirements) would spread some of the development furteher up river and in to other areas of the city.

Being from DC, you should know that, for example, the changes happening in SE would not be as widespread if the height limits were relaxed.