UPDATE: California Governor Gavin Newsom just signed a groundbreaking bill aimed at accelerating housing development near public transit, a critical move to address the state’s ongoing housing crisis. Senate Bill 79, introduced by Sen. Scott Wiener, was signed into law on July 28, 2023, and allows for taller housing structures near major transit hubs, with the goal of enhancing transit ridership and alleviating housing shortages.
“This is a transformative measure for California,” Newsom stated in his signing message. “For too long, we have invested heavily in transit without ensuring the necessary housing density around these systems. SB 79 changes that, promoting more housing near rail stations, which will not only boost ridership but also cut traffic and pollution.”
The legislation aims to tackle two critical issues: the lack of affordable housing and severe traffic congestion that have hindered the Bay Area’s economic growth. Jim Wunderman, President and CEO of the Bay Area Council, praised the decision, stating, “By signing this measure, Governor Newsom is making housing in California more affordable and the Bay Area a more attractive place to live and start a business.”
The new law targets seven counties in California: Alameda, San Francisco, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Sacramento, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Orange County will be included next year following the completion of a new streetcar project.
However, the signing of SB 79 comes after intense negotiations and compromises aimed at appeasing various stakeholders. Critics have raised concerns that the bill could undermine local authority over land-use planning. To address these fears, Wiener included provisions requiring union labor for buildings exceeding 85 feet and protections for low-income neighborhoods.
Despite these concessions, some lawmakers expressed reservations. Democratic Senator Aisha Wahab from Fremont opposed the bill, arguing it favored developers without mandating sufficient affordable housing solutions. Nonetheless, both Newsom and Wiener emphasized that the law preserves local control, allowing cities and counties to create tailored housing plans that meet the new baseline requirements.
“This bill strengthens local control,” Newsom assured. “Communities can still craft alternative plans to fit their needs while adhering to the housing capacity mandated by this legislation.”
SB 79 is part of a broader initiative by Governor Newsom, who signed several housing-related bills on the same day, including Assembly Bill 1050, aimed at removing barriers to converting underutilized commercial properties into housing.
As California navigates its housing challenges, this newly signed legislation marks a significant step towards increasing housing availability and improving public transportation options across the state. The implications of SB 79 are monumental, with the potential to reshape communities and enhance the quality of life for countless residents.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
