Housing Options Project: Phase 1

Phase 1 of the Housing Options Project will increase density and allow more housing to be constructed in multi-dwelling zones.

What concerns or questions do you have about the increased density?

Examples: “What kind of open space will residents have access to?” or “I’m concerned about buildings being too tall next to where I live.”  

This project will examine residential options in commercial and mixed-use zones and look at current limitations placed on those projects in the code.  

What concerns or questions do you have about apartments being allowed in commercial areas?  

Example: “I’m concerned about losing available retail space in the City.”  

This project will look at zones where there are currently requirements for ground-floor commercial where residential is proposed (mixed-use projects) and consider revisions to these requirements. 

What concerns or questions do you have about reducing requirements for ground-floor commercial in these areas?  

Example: “I live in an apartment with a cafe on the ground floor and like the walkable neighborhood I live in. How will this ensure there are still a mix of uses in these neighborhoods?" 

The code currently allows one accessory dwelling unit (a smaller unit constructed on the same property as a detached house or townhome) per property. The project will look at options for allowing 2 ADUs on a single property. This could look like allowing one ADU in a basement or attic and one detached in the backyard.   

What concerns or questions do you have about allowing 2 ADUs to be constructed on some properties?  

Example: “How will design standards ensure that these units blend in to existing neighborhoods?”