Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell is taking action to address the ongoing housing crisis and potential loss of tax revenue by proposing new legislation aimed at making it easier for property owners to convert commercial buildings into residential units. The proposed Downtown Activation Plan includes measures that would remove regulatory barriers and establish clear guidelines for converting existing buildings from commercial to residential use.
According to Harrell, this effort is necessary in order to meet the evolving needs of Seattle, particularly in downtown. While office space will still be needed, these changes will provide flexibility in optimizing the city’s built environment and creating a thriving workplace as well as a vibrant community for all residents.
The proposed legislation also includes exemptions from design development standards in order to facilitate conversions. In addition, Mayor Harrell has recently put forth land use code changes that aim at increasing density throughout Seattle’s neighborhoods.
This latest move by Seattle’s mayor demonstrates his commitment towards finding solutions for pressing issues facing the city while also promoting growth and development.
