Newsom signs historic housing bill to bring density to transit hubs, sparking debate and controversy
In a move that has sparked both excitement and controversy, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Senate Bill 79 into law, aiming to address California's housing crisis by increasing density near transit hubs. This ambitious bill, which faced months of debate and weeks of advocacy, reflects Newsom's commitment to his campaign promise of constructing 3.5 million new homes by the end of the year. However, the road to this decision has been fraught with challenges and differing opinions.
The bill, which takes effect in July 2026, upzones areas across California, overriding local zoning laws to allow taller, denser projects near transit hubs. Developers will be permitted to build up to nine-story residential buildings adjacent to subway stops, seven stories within a quarter-mile, and six stories within a half-mile. This marks a significant shift in housing policy, with supporters arguing that it will encourage public transportation and reduce vehicle pollution.
However, the bill has faced criticism from some cities, including Los Angeles, which argue that it imposes a one-size-fits-all approach, undermining local control. Mayor Karen Bass and the L.A. City Council have publicly opposed the bill, with Bass even requesting Newsom to veto it. The debate has intensified as cities, developers, and residents grapple with the implications of the bill, trying to understand who is affected and who is exempt.
One of the key controversies revolves around the 'Beverly Hills carve-out,' an amendment that shrinks the upzoning responsibility for certain small, affluent cities around Southern California. This has led to a complex eligibility map, where the law affects different areas based on proximity to transit stations and the presence of physical barriers. For instance, South Pasadena's Metro A Line station will only be affected within a quarter-mile, while adjacent communities like Pasadena and Highland Park in Los Angeles will be affected within a half-mile.
The bill's scope was also narrowed to only counties with at least 15 passenger rail stations, leaving only eight counties in California. This decision has raised questions about the bill's impact and whether it will effectively address the housing crisis in all regions of the state.
As the bill progresses, YIMBY groups and developers celebrate a major win, while some cities and residents express concerns about the potential consequences of rapid development. The future of California's housing landscape hangs in the balance, with the bill's implementation set to bring both challenges and opportunities for the state's diverse communities.
