Bill > SB806

This bill modifies existing housing development regulations to require affordable housing projects developed under section 201H-38 of Hawaii Revised Statutes to be located within county-designated transit-oriented development (TOD) zones or within a half-mile radius of a proposed or existing transit station. TOD zones are specially zoned areas near rail stations designed to encourage walkable, integrated communities with coordinated infrastructure. The bill aims to address concerns about infrastructure sustainability by ensuring that affordable housing projects are situated in areas with well-planned roadways, utilities, and land use requirements. Currently, the Hawaii housing finance and development corporation can grant exemptions from various planning, zoning, and construction standards for affordable housing projects, but this amendment adds the new location requirement to those projects. The change is intended to support more strategic and sustainable housing development by concentrating affordable housing in areas with robust transit infrastructure, potentially improving residents' access to transportation and reducing urban sprawl. The bill will take effect immediately upon approval and applies to future housing projects seeking exemptions under the specified statute.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=806&year=2026