Introduction

The proposed One Seattle Plan aims to introduce 100,000 new homes over the next 20 years, but is it enough? In Part 3 of our series, we delve into the major changes the plan proposes, how people are reacting, and the criticisms that have surfaced. Understanding these reactions is crucial as this plan could dramatically alter Seattle’s neighborhoods.

Major Changes in the One Seattle Plan

The One Seattle Plan introduces several key changes that could reshape the city's landscape:

Expansion of Urban Centers

• Urban Villages to Urban Centers: The plan proposes adding 24 new Urban Centers. However, this has been criticized for merely renaming existing strategies without significant expansion.

• Increased Housing Density: The plan allows up to four units on residential lots and up to six units within a quarter-mile of transit stops, provided two units are income-restricted affordable housing.

Housing Density and Zoning Adjustments

• Middle Housing Introduction: The plan advocates for more middle housing (e.g., duplexes, triplexes) across residential areas to accommodate the growing population.

• Height Limits Increased: To facilitate more housing, the height limit is increased, allowing for the addition of a third story on residential buildings.

• Setback Adjustments: The plan permits porches and balconies to extend into setbacks, offering more buildable space on lots.

Public Reactions and Criticisms

While the One Seattle Plan introduces promising changes, it has not been without its detractors. Here are the primary criticisms:

Insufficient Growth Projections

• Status Quo Criticism: Critics argue that the plan’s target of 100,000 new homes over 20 years is not ambitious enough. The current zoning has the potential for 160,000 homes, making the plan seem like more of the same.

• Lack of Expansion in Key Areas: There is concern that the plan fails to expand development in high-demand neighborhoods like Magnolia, Queen Anne, and North Capitol Hill.

Concerns Over Lot Coverage and Floor Area Ratios

• Limited Floor Area Increase: While the plan allows for more units, the permitted floor area ratio (FAR) increase is minimal, which some argue won’t significantly impact housing availability.

• Criticism of Urban Center Focus: The renaming of Urban Villages to Urban Centers has been seen as a superficial change, without real expansion of high-growth areas.

Challenges in Meeting Housing Demand

• Not Keeping Up with Demand: According to recent studies, Seattle needs 120,000 new units immediately, with an additional 82,000 each year to meet future demand. The plan's 100,000 new homes fall short of these needs.

Conclusion: What Does This Mean for Seattle?

The One Seattle Plan is set to bring significant changes, but the debate continues over whether these changes are enough to address Seattle’s housing crisis. With the potential to dramatically alter neighborhoods and increase density, residents and investors alike must weigh in on these proposals. Are you in favor of more ambitious housing goals, or do you believe the current plan strikes the right balance? The future of Seattle's neighborhoods may depend on your perspective.