SAN DIEGO (KGTV) -- San Diego’s City Council voted 8-1 Monday evening to ease parking requirements for certain housing projects, which they say will make it easier for developers to build new homes.
Mayor Kevin Faulconer said Monday that the current parking rules are outdated, but opponents say San Diego isn’t ready for the changes and that the city should focus on improving transportation.
The plan gets rid of parking requirements for multi-family units in neighborhoods within half a mile of mass transit.
“While it took way too long to get this ordinance approved, I praise my colleagues for finally getting it across the finish line,” said Councilmember Scott Sherman. “This is good news, but our work to fix San Diego’s housing crisis is nowhere near complete. We must continue pushing innovative strategies to improve housing affordability and we can’t wait two years for approval.”
Before Monday’s vote, at least one parking spot per unit was required. The new policy gives residents who don’t have a car the option of paying less for housing.
Supporters say the move makes it easier for developers to build and help the city reach it’s climate action goals.
Those opposed say San Diego doesn’t have the public transportation to support the change. Critics also say roughly 94 percent of San Diego residents own a car.
The change applies to new apartment and condo projects.
