Spokane Enacts Sweeping Zoning Reform to Address Housing Crisis

Spokane Enacts Sweeping Zoning Reform to Tackle Housing CrisisSpokane Enacts Sweeping Zoning Reform to Tackle Housing Crisis In an effort to address the escalating housing crisis, the Spokane City Council has passed a groundbreaking zoning reform ordinance. The ordinance, known as “Unlocking Spokane,” aims to increase housing affordability, reduce sprawl, and promote equity. Key Provisions of the Ordinance: * Zoning for Missing Middle Housing: Allows for the construction of more duplexes, triplexes, and small multi-family units in formerly single-family zoned areas. * Height and Density Limits Relaxed: Allows for taller buildings and higher density in certain areas, particularly along transit corridors and near job centers. * Elimination of Single-Family Zoning: Eliminates the exclusive zoning for single-family homes, opening up more land for multi-family development. * Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) Permitted: Allows homeowners to build small, secondary units on their property for rental or family use. * Streamlined Permitting Process: Simplifies and expedites the permitting process for affordable housing developments. Benefits of the Reform: * Increased Housing Supply: The ordinance is expected to create thousands of new housing units, particularly in the most affordable categories. * Reduced Costs: By allowing for more density and missing middle housing, the ordinance will reduce land and construction costs, making housing more affordable. * Improved Equity: By diversifying housing options, the ordinance aims to reduce segregation and create more accessible communities. * Reduced Sprawl: Encouraging infill development and higher density in urban areas will help preserve agricultural and natural lands outside the city limits. * Job Growth: The construction and operation of new housing will create new jobs and stimulate the local economy. Community Impact: The zoning reform ordinance has received mixed reactions from the community. Some residents welcome the increase in housing options and the potential for more affordable housing. Others express concerns about traffic, noise, and changes to the character of their neighborhoods. The city is implementing a comprehensive community engagement process to address these concerns and ensure that the ordinance is implemented equitably and responsibly. The ordinance also includes provisions for community input and review before significant development projects are approved. Conclusion: The zoning reform ordinance passed by the Spokane City Council represents a bold step towards addressing the city’s housing crisis. By increasing housing supply, reducing costs, promoting equity, and limiting sprawl, the ordinance aims to create a more accessible, affordable, and sustainable city for all residents. The success of the ordinance will be closely monitored and adjustments made as needed to ensure its effectiveness in achieving its goals.