Bill > HB2160

This bill aims to promote community and transit-oriented housing development in Washington. The key provisions are: 1. Cities planning under the Growth Management Act must allow new residential and mixed-use development within station areas (defined as areas near major transit stops) at minimum transit-oriented development densities of 3.5 floor area ratio within 0.5 miles and 2.5 floor area ratio within 0.25 miles of transit stops. This is intended to maximize the benefits of state transportation investments. 2. Cities cannot require off-street parking as a condition of permitting residential or mixed-use development within station areas, with some exceptions. This is to encourage transit use and realize environmental benefits. 3. All project actions proposing residential or mixed-use development within station areas are categorically exempt from the State Environmental Policy Act requirements. 4. The Department of Commerce must establish a capital grant program to assist cities in providing infrastructure for transit-oriented development. 5. The Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee must review the effects of the affordable housing and transit-oriented development requirements. The bill aims to enable more housing development near transit, support affordable housing, and reduce barriers to transit-oriented development.