"SB 79's implementation has proven less straightforward than the bill's author, Senator Scott Wiener (D-SF) had hoped. Cities, developers, and even some state officials have raised questions about how transit stops are defined, which corridors qualify, and how height and density standards apply in practice. Wiener has authored follow-on legislation, Senate Bill 677, which aims to clarify these questions, and has allowed for the possibility of delaying SB79 implementation."
"The uncertainty has given opponents an opening. In some communities, mostly in southern California, local officials have signaled reluctance to pursue new rail stations or high-frequency bus upgrades precisely because of the housing allowances that would follow. Encinitas and Solana Beach have in San Diego County have expressed concerns that the law will change the "local character" around transit stops."
Passage and signing of SB 79 triggered intense debate and a difficult rollout, revealing fractures within the Democratic supermajority and resistance from transit agencies. Implementation questions include precise definitions of transit stops, eligible corridors, and how height and density standards will be applied. Follow-on legislation, SB 677, aims to clarify those uncertainties and allows for possible implementation delays. The uncertainty has prompted some local officials to hesitate on new rail stations or high-frequency bus upgrades because of ensuing housing allowances. Concerns about preserving local character and rising political risk are complicating both transportation and housing goals.
Read at Streetsblog
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