Home in Tacoma Passes: Now What’s Next with this new law?





The recently approved *Home in Tacoma* initiative represents a landmark step for the city, addressing pressing housing challenges by introducing sweeping changes to zoning and urban density. This initiative, unanimously approved by the Tacoma City Council, aims to create more affordable housing, increase density, and promote sustainable urban development.


Key Features of Home in Tacoma


1. Zoning Reforms for Diversity and Affordability

   The initiative introduces three new Urban Residential zones, replacing traditional single-family zoning in many areas. These zones allow for a broader mix of housing types, including duplexes, townhomes, multi-family dwellings, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). This change aims to tackle housing scarcity by making efficient use of existing urban spaces.


2. Balancing Density with Environmental Considerations

   New developments are required to integrate tree planting and preservation efforts to maintain Tacoma’s green spaces. This policy balances the need for urban growth with environmental sustainability, ensuring the city's unique character is preserved. 


3. Streamlined Development

   To encourage faster construction, the initiative modifies building requirements, including setbacks and shared utilities. It also reduces parking mandates in transit-friendly areas, supporting a shift toward walkable, bikeable communities.


4. Pilot Program for Transition

   To ease adoption, a pre-development pilot program running from December 2024 to January 2025 will guide developers in navigating the new regulations. Early adopters may also receive permit fee credits.


Addressing Challenges


While Home in Tacoma holds promise, it also raises concerns. The initiative prioritizes density, which some fear might compromise green spaces and existing neighborhood dynamics. Currently Tacoma tree canopy is at approximately 20% with ongoing initiatives aimed at increasing canopy to 30% by 2030. Others worry about whether the new housing will be genuinely affordable. To mitigate these issues, the city is committed to monitoring outcomes closely and encouraging community involvement during implementation.


Looking Ahead


The initiative will officially take effect in February 2025, marking the start of a new era in Tacoma's housing landscape. With an estimated addition of tens of thousands of new units over the next several decades, the plan is poised to alleviate housing pressures while fostering inclusivity and sustainability. However, its success will depend on collaboration between city officials, developers, and the community to ensure that growth benefits all residents.


By embracing this bold vision, Tacoma is setting a precedent for cities across the Pacific Northwest facing similar housing crises. The balance between progress and preservation will be key to achieving a future where everyone has access to affordable, quality housing.


For more detailed information, visit the City of Tacoma's website on the Home in Tacoma initiative (https://www.cityoftacoma.org/whats_going_on/home_in_tacoma__f_a_q_november_2024 ) or review recent analyses in publications like *The Urbanist* and *The Suburban Times*.

As always, if I can help you buy or list a home in Tacoma or anywhere in the Puget Sound, please text or call me at (206) 643-8845 or connect with me at www.erikmolzen@bhhsnw.com


#HomeInTacoma, #TacomaHousing, #AffordableHousingPNW, #UrbanDensity, #ZoningReform, #SustainableHousing, #PNWRealEstate, #TacomaLiving, #SmartGrowth, #ADUHomes, #TacomaDevelopment, #UrbanPlanning, #HousingCrisisSolutions, #CommunityGrowth, #PNWNeighborhoods 

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