Sammamish Council Evaluates Housing Solutions to Increase Density and Affordability

The Sammamish City Planning Commission meeting held on July 17, 2025, focused on addressing the pressing housing challenges facing the community. The meeting began with a discussion on the need for increased housing density and the introduction of diverse building types to meet the growing demand for affordable housing.

Commission members highlighted that the housing issue is not unique to Sammamish but is a widespread concern across the region and the nation. In October 2023, the Planning Commission and City Council were tasked with exploring ways to promote and accelerate diverse and affordable housing options, particularly in the Taub Center area. Since that time, the commission has been reviewing existing plans and codes, as well as developing a draft environmental impact statement, which has recently been published and is open for public comment.

A significant focus of the meeting was on making mixed-use mid-rise and low-rise construction types financially viable for developers. The commission noted that without these options, the town center would continue to develop primarily with townhomes, which do not adequately address the housing gap in Sammamish. The current lack of density in the town center was identified as a barrier to creating the necessary amenities, such as parks, trails, and restaurants, which are essential for a vibrant community.

The discussions underscored the importance of establishing a financially viable path for developers to construct the types of housing that the city needs. Without this, the desired development and community amenities may not materialize, leaving the housing issue unresolved.

In conclusion, the meeting emphasized the urgency of addressing housing density and diversity in Sammamish, with plans for further public engagement and review of the draft environmental impact statement to follow. The commission remains committed to finding solutions that will enhance the community's housing landscape.