California Cities Navigate Senate Bill 79 for Housing Development Near Transit Hubs
California's local governments are grappling with the implementation of Senate Bill 79, which allows developers to construct mid-rise buildings near major transit stops. The law, effective July 1, provides cities with flexibility in determining the specifics of these developments. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are exploring various strategies to either comply with or delay the law's requirements. Los Angeles has opted to delay by overhauling its zoning map, while San Francisco is considering exempting certain areas. Governor Gavin Newsom has criticized some cities for attempting to shield parts of their jurisdictions from the law, although he has not accused them of legal violations.