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RDA reviews housing design book, infill standards and ADU guidance for RDA-owned lots
Summary
Staff presented a housing design book and buildable plans intended for RDA infill lots; commissioners discussed required specifications—basements, egress windows, garages, ADA access and ADUs—and asked staff to produce a concise set of minimum specs to attach to future RDA conveyances.
City staff presented a housing design book and a set of buildable plans intended to guide development on RDA-owned infill lots and to support the Washington neighborhood project. Staff said the materials include single-story, 1.5-story and two-story footprints, ADU guidance and accessibility options, and that they can be used as suggested plans for prospective buyers or builders.
Staff asked the RDA to consider which design elements should be required versus recommended. Planning and inspection staff are preparing a short list of minimum specifications the city would attach to RDA lot conveyances and to infill-lot solicitations: examples discussed include basements with egress windows so a basement bedroom could be added later, detached garages where lot geometry allows, and basic ADA-accessible options for aging-in-place. Staff said they have duplex and ADU plans as well and noted that ADUs are allowed by right in the zones discussed.
Why it matters: The design book and standard plans are intended to accelerate infill homebuilding, reduce guesswork for buyers, and ensure new homes fit neighborhood character while meeting durability and accessibility standards. Commissioners emphasized balancing clear minimum standards (to avoid poor-quality builds) with flexibility so the city does not overly restrict potential developers.
Process and timing: Staff will refine specifications in coordination with planning and inspection staff and circulate a recommended set to the RDA. The design book and plan links will be made available to potential buyers; staff also said they will attach or reference the plans in RDA lot marketing materials. The RDA encouraged staff to provide two or three example designs per lot to help prospective buyers visualize options, though staff noted that is labor-intensive and depends on staff capacity.
