Seattle City Council reviews comprehensive 1 Seattle Plan to address housing crisis

Seattle's City Council is moving forward with the adoption of the "1 Seattle Plan," a comprehensive update to the city's growth strategy aimed at addressing the ongoing housing crisis and preparing for significant population growth over the next two decades. During a recent Select Committee meeting, Michael Hubner from the Office of Planning and Community Development (OPCD) outlined the key components of the plan, which is designed to accommodate an expected population of over one million residents by 2045.

The "1 Seattle Plan" is a major overhaul of the city's comprehensive plan, which is updated every ten years. This update is particularly crucial as it responds to new state laws aimed at increasing housing affordability and resilience against climate change. Notably, the plan incorporates requirements from House Bill 1220, which mandates new housing policies, and House Bill 1110, which allows for middle housing in all neighborhoods. Additionally, it includes a new climate mitigation and resilience element in compliance with House Bill 1181.

Hubner emphasized that the plan is grounded in extensive community engagement, reflecting the values and vision of Seattle residents. The update process involved multiple opportunities for public comment and targeted outreach, ensuring that equity and inclusion were central to the planning efforts. The plan also aligns with regional growth strategies set by the Puget Sound Regional Council, which is essential for securing federal transportation funding.

The growth strategy outlined in the "1 Seattle Plan" marks the first significant change in 30 years, focusing on increasing the diversity and affordability of housing across the city. Key elements include promoting middle housing, concentrating development around transit investments, and zoning for apartments along frequent transit routes. This approach aims to double the city's residential capacity, potentially adding 330,000 new homes to meet future demands.

As the council prepares to consider the legislation over the summer, the implications of the "1 Seattle Plan" are profound. It not only addresses immediate housing needs but also sets a framework for a more inclusive and resilient Seattle, ensuring that the city can accommodate its growing population while enhancing the quality of life for all residents. The next steps will involve further discussions and refinements to the plan, with a focus on implementing the necessary zoning changes to support these ambitious goals.