California legislators have passed a bill that will enable the construction of high-density housing complexes near transit hubs.
According to combined media reports, SB 79 proposed by State Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) would overrule local zoning ordinances by allowing the creation of taller and denser housing developments to be built near transit corridors including bus stops and train stations. The bill gives the green light for the creation of multifamily projects up to nine stories that are located adjacent to certain transit hubs, up to seven stories on building within a quarter-mile of the hubs, and up to six stories on buildings within a half-mile.
The bill faced vocal opposition from the Democrat-controlled Los Angeles City Council and Mayor Karen Bass, as well as from neighborhood groups that argued higher-density housing would not fit in communities that consist primarily of single-family housing. However, it was supported by labor unions who were pleased with the bill’s provisions regarding a mandate for union workers on the new construction.
Gov. Gavin Newsom has not publicly commented on the bill and has about a month to either sign or veto it.
SB79 is ruining neighborhoods. Cities have no local control in decisions where high density is appropriate. Preserving quality of life in established neighborhoods, which intimately affect property values. Urging Governor Newsom not to sign SB79.