Arizona lawmakers have proposed a bill that would boost the state's affordable housing fund and increase density in some residential areas.
A proposed bill in the Arizona state legislature "would add tens of millions of dollars to the state's low-income housing trust fund," reports Morgan Loew. But, in an unsurprising move, the bill has drawn criticism for its proposed adjustments to the state's zoning laws from opponents who worry about the effects of eliminating single-family zoning. "The bill would require municipalities to allow eight single-family dwellings per acre or 12 two-family dwelling units per acre on other specified land, regardless of current residential zoning."
Single-family zoning has recently been in the crosshairs of many local and state lawmakers as the housing market becomes increasingly unaffordable for many American families. Critics of single-family zoning argue that the designation has a long history of being used to exclude low-income and minority groups, encourages sprawl, and keeps the housing supply unsustainably low. Around the country, cities and states have eliminated single-family zoning as part of efforts to boost housing construction and encourage higher density and infill development, legalizing more housing types such as duplexes and accessory dwelling units (also known as 'missing middle housing').
FULL STORY: Affordable housing plan would rewrite residential zoning laws
Lawsuit Aims to Stop NYC’s ‘City of Yes’ Zoning Reforms
A lawsuit brought by local lawmakers and community groups claims the plan failed to conduct a comprehensive environmental review.
How Zoning Reform Could Ease Montana's Housing Crunch
A new report recommends increased production of 'missing middle housing' in Montana, which, like other Western states, is experiencing rapid growth and an increasingly tight housing market.
More Evidence Upzoning Alone Won't Boost Housing
Experts caution that to encourage significant new housing production, other zoning reforms that reduce costs and streamline permitting should accompany increased density requirements.
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.
Placekeeping: Setting a New Precedent for City Planners
How a preservation-based approach to redevelopment and urban design can prevent displacement and honor legacy communities.
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.
Washington State Plans Ambitious ‘Cycle Highway’ Network
The state is directing funding to close gaps in its existing bike network and make long-distance trips more accessible.
Homeowners Blame PG&E for Delays in ADU Permits
The utility says it has dramatically reduced its backlog, but applicants say they still face months-long delays for approvals for new electrical work.
Rethinking Wildfire Defense: How a Landscape Approach Can Protect Neighborhoods
Post-fire analysis of the Eaton Fire reveals that a landscape approach — including fire-resistant vegetation, home hardening, and strategic planning — can help reduce wildfire risk, challenging assumptions that trees and plants are primary fire hazards.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
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Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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Caltrans
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
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Salt Lake City
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
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