YIMBYs on the Cusp of Major Victory in California
8 hours ago
- #housing
- #California
- #zoning-reform
- Democrats are debating between economic populism and center-left technocracy as their path forward.
- California’s Senate Bill 79 aims to upzone land near transit stops to address housing shortages.
- SB 79 establishes state zoning standards within a half-mile of major transit stops, allowing for taller residential buildings.
- Proponents argue current zoning prevents dense housing near transit, increasing prices and suburban sprawl.
- Opponents, including tenant advocates, fear SB 79 could lead to displacement and gentrification.
- Amendments to SB 79 added affordability safeguards, but some critics remain unconvinced.
- Experts agree more housing supply, even market-rate, leads to affordability through 'chains of moves.'
- YIMBYs credit their long-term advocacy for SB 79’s progress, not just the influence of 'Abundance.'
- The bill’s success could signal the viability of Abundance policies in other areas.