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SB 79 debate centers on upzoning near high‑quality transit, opponents warn affordability not guaranteed
Summary
Sen. Scott Wiener’s SB 79 would set statewide rules to allow greater housing near high‑quality transit stops. Backers said it boosts transit ridership and housing supply; opponents and some members warned the bill lacks firm affordability requirements and could exempt public land use rules.
Sen. Scott Wiener presented SB 79 as a statewide approach to encourage housing near high‑quality transit — including rail, bus rapid transit and ferries — with tiered standards based on service frequency and proximity. He framed the bill as a way to unlock housing in transit‑rich, high‑resource neighborhoods, reduce vehicle miles travelled and expand ridership for underfunded transit systems.
The author and his supporters said SB 79 creates default zoning standards near major transit stops but allows cities to submit an alternative plan that produces the same amount of housing in another form, preserving a form of local flexibility. Supporters — including mayors and transit agency…
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