The legislation would permit duplexes and, in some cases, fourplexes in residential areas in most Washington towns.
The Washington State Senate passed a bill permitting duplexes to be built in most Washington cities as part of the legislature’s effort to increase the housing supply and slow the rise of housing costs, reports Joseph O’Sullivan in Crosscut. According to O’Sullivan, “State officials estimate another 1 million housing units will be required in the next two decades to keep up with growth.”
The bill requires localities with populations between 25,000 and 75,000 to allow duplexes in residential neighborhoods. The bill also permits fourplex construction in cities with over 75,000 people.
House Bill 1110, which was amended before the Senate vote, will go back to the House for a final vote. The bill is one of many pieces of zoning reform legislation proposed in Washington and other states that aim to boost housing production and remove barriers created by restrictive local zoning codes.
FULL STORY: WA Senate passes "missing middle" bill to increase housing density
Wealthy Washington Neighborhoods Could Remain Untouched by Zoning Reforms
Neighborhoods with preexisting internal contracts are exempted from new legislation requiring all Washington cities to permit duplexes and other ‘missing middle housing.’
British Columbia Asserts Provincial Control Over Density
The Canadian province plans to override local opposition to loosening zoning regulations that restrict the housing supply.
Decatur Moves Closer to Legalizing Duplexes, ‘Missing Middle Housing’
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Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.
Santa Barbara Could Build Housing on County Land
County supervisors moved forward a proposal to build workforce housing on two county-owned parcels.
San Mateo Formally Opposes Freeway Project
The city council will send a letter to Caltrans urging the agency to reconsider a plan to expand the 101 through the city of San Mateo.
A Bronx Community Fights to Have its Voice Heard
After organizing and giving input for decades, the community around the Kingsbridge Armory might actually see it redeveloped — and they want to continue to have a say in how it goes.
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