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Senate committee hears bill to allow single‑stair apartment designs to reduce construction costs
Summary
Sponsor Daniel Zolnikoff told the Senate Local Government Committee SB 213 would let controlled single‑stair configurations for multifamily buildings reduce construction costs while proponents said sprinklers and modern materials maintain safety. Fire officials opposed the measure, citing rescue and egress concerns for taller buildings.
Senator Daniel Zolnikoff introduced Senate Bill 213 to the Senate Local Government Committee, saying the measure would permit single‑stair configurations for certain multifamily buildings under controlled safety conditions to cut construction costs and increase housing supply. “This is a housing concept that shows a lower cost for developments…very similar safety standards,” Zolnikoff said, and provided example figures for a six‑story building where two staircases cost roughly $3,000,000 and a single‑stair option costs $2.6–$2.8 million.
Proponents told the committee the change is intended to preserve essential life‑safety features while reducing redundant space.…
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