SB 79 Passes the Senate: What It Means for Housing Near Public Transit in California
SB 79 is one of California’s most ambitious housing bills this legislative cycle. The bill targets areas that are currently zoned for parking lots and other underutilized land near rail stations. By allowing apartment buildings to be constructed in these areas, regardless of current local zoning rules, SB 79 would unlock thousands of new homes in neighborhoods well-served by public transit.
Why This Matters
California continues to face a severe housing affordability crisis. One contributing factor is the lack of new housing construction, especially in areas where people already live and work. SB 79 addresses this issue by:
Encouraging transit-oriented development, which reduces reliance on cars and helps lower emissions.
Prioritizing multi-family housing in high-opportunity areas.
Preempting some local zoning restrictions that have historically limited density and growth.
Proponents argue that increasing housing supply near transit can help address climate goals, reduce commute times, and improve affordability by creating more options in desirable areas.
With Senate approval secured, SB 79 now moves to the Assembly for committee review and a floor vote. If it passes the Assembly and is signed into law by the Governor, it could set a new precedent for how California approaches urban planning and housing production.
“Tonight’s vote is a big step toward making California an affordable place for people to live and thrive. California urgently needs to build more homes to bring down costs, and building them near transit provides our public transportation systems with an urgently needed infusion of new riders. This is an idea whose time has come.”
Click HERE to learn more about SB 79
CA State Senator, Scott Wiener (San Francisco) addresses lawmakers on the first day of session in the California Senate, on Jan. 3, 2024.
Photo: Fred Greaves for CalMatters