SB 79 proposes automatic upzoning within a quarter-mile of rail stations, major bus stops, and ferry terminals and would allow transit agencies greater density on their own property. The bill would streamline transit-oriented development approval processes and create ministerial approvals within a half-mile for projects that conform to local zoning and inclusionary housing rules. The Los Angeles City Council voted 8–5 to oppose the bill and Mayor Karen Bass approved that stance. Los Angeles has a state-approved Housing Element but is falling short of required housing production, approving over 17,000 units last year versus a needed average of 57,000 per year. Support and opposition in the city crossed ideological and geographic lines, with several Westside cities endorsing the bill while Los Angeles leadership opposed it.
As the legislature returned to session last week, Senate Bill 79, the Abundant & Affordable Homes Near Transit Act introduced by Senator Scott Wiener (D-SF), was one of the pieces of legislation taking center stage. SB 79 would automatically upzone land within a quarter of a mile of rail stations, major bus stops, and ferry terminals. It would allow for transit agencies to build with greater density than local zoning on their own property, and would streamline transit-oriented development approval processes.
Support and opposition to SB 79 didn't fall clearly along ideological or geographic lines in Los Angeles. The vote saw the representatives of the more upper-class parts of the city, West Los Angeles and the an Fernando Valley, ally with a progressive councilmember representing East Los Angeles to oppose the legislation. Councilmembers representing South Los Angeles were also split. South L.A. is where Bass began her political career and earned the highest share of the vote in her mayoral election.
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