Mayor Nickels is proposing amendments to the Land Use Code to expand the use of incentive zoning programs beyond their current application in Downtown. The Workforce Housing Incentive would apply when a significant increase in development capacity, in the form of additional height or floor area beyond that permitted outright on a lot, is allowed. The added floor area or structure height would be conditioned on an applicant including specific elements in a project that would provide a public benefit. The proposed program would apply in different parts of the city as development regulations are revised to incorporate incentive zoning.
Workforce Housing Incentive has the potential to:
• Encourage growth where it is most appropriate and reduce development pressures on fragile natural environments and low-density, single-family areas;
• Promote housing affordability; and
• Encourage other benefits to serve growth such as new open spaces and landmark preservation.
