Strengthening the University District by improving the retail mix and creating redevelopment opportunities is the focus of a proposal being sent to Mayor Nickels this fall. The proposal is part of a larger strategy to revitalize the University District--a strategy that has provided storefront improvement grants, strengthened the residential noise ordinance, facilitated business support for additional police patrols, and sought removal of the University of Washington lease lid and new land use and zoning regulations to encourage production of housing in the neighborhood. For more details visit our Background page.
The proposed land use and zoning changes would:
- Reduce minimum residential parking requirements for new construction to match anticipated demand (as indicated by the 2000 census) while increasing the requirement for units with more than three bedrooms
- Adjust residential amenity requirements in Neighborhood Commercial zones (e.g. balconies, roof-top decks, or exercise rooms) and allow part of the requirement to be met indoors or off-site
- Allow a height bonus in Neighborhood Commercial zones (but not along The Ave) for projects that include affordable units
View the proposed legistlation report and proposed legislation.
These changes will help realize housing goals in the University District, which are an important part of balancing the mix of jobs and homes within the University Community Urban Center, allowing people (see public involvement) to live and work in this lively urban neighborhood.
