Housing
Ferguson Transition Team: Transit-Oriented Development Should Be ‘Top Priority’
On top of recommending a focus on building homes near transit, the new report also supports a number of proposals in front of the legislature to reduce housing costs, including parking reform and rent stabilization.
Could Seattle’s 20-Year Growth Plan Get Derailed by Predatory Appeal?
The release of the city's final environmental review of the One Seattle growth plan is likely to be followed by an appeal, in an attempt to stop neighborhood-level zoning changes. But while an appeal may add time, it's likely to ultimately fail.
Washington Legislature Sets it Sights on Transit-Oriented Development…Again
House Bill 1491 would require cities to increase development capacity around train stations and bus rapid transit stops. But a contentious affordability requirement for that new development could be a sticking point.
Join The Urbanist for a Meetup with House Our Neighbors on Feb 3rd
Join The Urbanist and House Our Neighbors at TeKu Tavern Monday Feb 3rd at 6pm to socialize and hear about Prop 1A.
Homebuilders Warn Seattle’s Planned MFTE Changes Threaten to Kill Affordability Program
The Harrell Administration has proposed changes to the Multifamily Property Tax Exemption (MFTE) that housing advocates warn could cause the affordable housing program to “collapse entirely.”
Sara Nelson Restarts the Debate About Allowing More Housing in SoDo
The idea of encouraging more residential development around Seattle's stadiums had been put on ice in 2023 with the adoption of a citywide maritime and industrial strategy. Nelson's bill reignites that debate just as the council starts to consider the Comprehensive Plan.
Rent Stabilization Tops Washington Democrats’ Housing Agenda for 2025 Session
Democratic leaders are saying this is the year that the Washington State Legislature will finally pass rent stabilization, with momentum building behind Rep. Emily Alvarado's bill.
Bateman Takes Aim at Washington’s Parking Mandates
A new bill introduced at the state legislature by longtime housing advocate Jessica Bateman would represent a sea change, limiting the ability of cities and counties to mandate high amounts of parking.