San Diego's Affordable Homes Bonus Program (AHBP), launched in mid-2016, increases incentives for projects that incorporate more affordable units. Developers are taking notice.
When it comes to inclusionary zoning, Josh Cohen writes, "For many years, San Diego relied on a statewide program and a long-unenforced city ordinance, but in 2016, the city rolled out a new program that builds on the state law by offering more incentives for developers [...]."
The Affordable Homes Bonus Program (AHBP), now in place for over a year, is "an expanded version of the state program that, among other incentives, offers a maximum of 50 percent density increases in exchange for 15 percent rent-restricted units built." California's program, for reference, offers a maximum 35 percent density increase with 11 percent of units rent-restricted.
San Diego developers, it would appear, have been receptive. "To date, 18 market-rate developers have applied for the new program. Between 2005 and 2016, a total of 36 developers applied to the state density bonus program."
However, critics point out that the density increases involved are hardly "modest" and that they violate the spirit of existing community plans.
FULL STORY: San Diego’s Affordable Housing Program Could One Up California
San Diego Begins to See Results of State Housing Law
Homeowners in Southern California are starting to take advantage of a state law that allows lot splitting and higher density in residential areas in an effort to increase housing supply and affordability.
San Diego Mayor’s Housing Plan Fails in Council
A proposal to stimulate more housing production in the city was opposed from multiple sides.
California Cities Could Face a Zoning Reckoning
As the state toughens rules related to its housing allocation process, cities statewide may finally be forced to overhaul their zoning codes to ensure an adequate supply of housing at all affordability levels.
Alabama: Trump Terminates Settlements for Black Communities Harmed By Raw Sewage
Trump deemed the landmark civil rights agreement “illegal DEI and environmental justice policy.”
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
Understanding Road Diets
An explainer from Momentum highlights the advantages of reducing vehicle lanes in favor of more bike, transit, and pedestrian infrastructure.
New California Law Regulates Warehouse Pollution
A new law tightens building and emissions regulations for large distribution warehouses to mitigate air pollution and traffic in surrounding communities.
Phoenix Announces Opening Date for Light Rail Extension
The South Central extension will connect South Phoenix to downtown and other major hubs starting on June 7.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Caltrans
Smith Gee Studio
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions
Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service