Density debate sparks friction in Seattle
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Newer homes in West Seattle reflect the city's evolving approach to increasing density. Photo: David Ryder/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Seattle's effort to map housing growth for the next two decades is fueling sharp divisions on the City Council.
Why it matters: The debate over the proposed plan to double the city's housing capacity echoes familiar conflicts in growing cities — how to balance density and affordability without eroding neighborhood character or spurring sprawl.
Driving the news: The Seattle City Council held its first hearing last week on Mayor Bruce Harrell's "One Seattle Comprehensive Plan," which aims to add zoning capacity for 330,000 housing units by 2044.
- The plan proposes zoning changes to allow more homes per lot in single-family neighborhoods, increase density near transit, and establish 30 new "neighborhood centers" for midrise housing.
Friction point: When Harrell unveiled the plan last year, some critics said it didn't go far enough in pushing for more square footage per lot, fewer parking mandates, and streamlined construction.
- Now, opposition from those saying it goes too far is growing, The Urbanist reported, with residents citing infrastructure, tree canopy loss, and potential environmental damage in petitions asking City Hall to remove proposed high-density centers from their neighborhoods.
- Councilmember Cathy Moore criticized "free range zoning" and said townhomes and rentals don't provide the ownership opportunities people want.
- More transparency from city planners was requested by Councilmember Maritza Rivera, who said her constituents have lingering questions about the proposed changes and how feedback was incorporated into the plan.
The other side: Councilmember Dan Strauss argued the city has consistently underestimated housing needs in the past.
- His argument was reinforced by Councilmember Joy Hollingsworth: "I think we're going to have to get very creative with this comprehensive plan, and we're going to have to get comfortable with density."
Reality check: Despite record-setting housing construction in 2024, Seattle is still playing catch-up after years of falling behind on housing production relative to job growth.
Behind the scenes: The council will review the housing plan in two phases, first looking at updates needed to comply with a 2023 state law on multiplexes, according to Callie Craighead, a spokesperson for the mayor.
- The 2025-2026 budget includes $350,000 for a study on potential upzones to boost density in key areas.
What's next: The council will discuss the plan again Wednesday, when city planners will present Harrell's recommended growth strategy.
- The first of three public hearings on the plan is slated for Feb. 5.