A new Senate Bill by Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) would remove many of California’s zoning restrictions which limit certain housing within a half-mile of major transit stations and routes.
This would allow for more dense housing, which, according to Wiener, would help the state address both the affordable housing shortage and California’s emissions reduction goals.
If passed, the legislation would supercede local zoning rules, and that eroding of local control is one of the aspects of the bill that rubs opponents the wrong way. Other critiques of the bill are that it would change the landscape of neighborhoods in Los Angeles and that it’s an ineffective way to eliminate gas emissions.
Should L.A. allow for more dense housing along rail and bus lines? Are you concerned or happy with the changes the bill could bring to your neighborhood?
Guests:
Ethan Elkind, director of the climate program at the Center for Law, Energy & the Environment, a joint venture of UCLA and UC Berkeley; he is author of the book, “Railtown: The Fight for the Los Angeles Metro Rail and the Future of the City” (UC Press, 2014)
Paul Koretz, City of Los Angeles councilmember representing the 5th District, which includes communities on the westside of L.A. from Hollywood to Bel Air, as well as communities in the San Fernando Valley
Mark Ryavec, president of the Venice Stakeholders Association