Can New Regulations Improve Development, Preserve Homes in Squire Park?
The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) is proposing significant revisions f to the Land Use Code for Multifamily Zones (MF), that is, zones in which buildings having two or more dwelling units are allowed, as opposed to Single Family Zones. Most of Squire Park is zoned for multifamily buildings. Even some blocks that currently have only, or mostly, single family homes are zoned MF.
The proposed changes can be found at the DPD Web site: www.seattle.gov/dpd/planning/multifamily_code_update/
Many Squire Park residents believe that DPD and new Land Use Code regulations could do more to help protect and support the livability of our neighborhood. When the proposed new regulations are sent to City Council for consideration and approval, the SPCC will be advocating for changes that deal with several of the problems that Squire Park neighbors have identified.
Resistance to new development is often a reaction to larger “cookie-cutter” townhouses replacing older buildings that are perceived as having more character, that is, visual interest, texture, and appropriate scale.
Can Land Use regulations allow new development and denser neighborhoods while also encourage the preservation of some existing homes? Are the changes proposed by DPD to encourage better design adequate? Are they necessary? Are overly stringent parking requirements unintentionally discouraging better design?
For some thoughts on these and other issues, see the SPCC Web site (www.squirepark.org). To join in a conversation about how things could be better, come to the January 12 SPCC meeting. Help us present our neighborhood’s case to the City Council.
—Bill Zosel & Ann Schuessler