A new pilot project doesn't have the funding to upend the housing market in one of the most expensive markets in the country, but it does set a precedent of support for new housing models.
Elijah Chiland reports on a pilot program approved Tuesday by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors that will provide homeowners with "$75,000 in funding—as well as a streamlined permitting process—to construct accessory dwelling units (otherwise known as granny flats or in-law units) on their properties."
"In a similar arrangement, homeowners who already have second units on their properties can apply for up to $50,000 in funding for necessary renovations to the dwellings," adds Chiland. The 18-month project has $550,000 in funding available, which works out to enough funding for 7.3 new ADUs or 11 renovated ADUs.
Accessory dwelling units were identified as a relatively cheap form of housing that could help the county house its homeless population in the "Approved Strategies to Combat Homelessness" [pdf] report from February 2016.
Read the full story: LA County will pay homeowners to build granny flats for the homeless
California Cities Going the Extra Mile to Support ADU Construction
A few jurisdictions have gone beyond conformity with state law to encourage the construction of accessory dwelling units in the state of California, like in San Diego.
What do the Gilmore Girls, Happy Days, and Full House have in common? ADUs.
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NYC’s ‘ADU for You’ Initiative Offers Pre-approved Plans and Financing Tools
The project pairs pre-approved plans with financing and other tools to help more homeowners build accessory units.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
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Desperate measures: Advocates weigh draining Lake Powell to fill Colorado River
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In Texas, data centers are swallowing promised parkland
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How a Chicago-sized wind farm beat the odds and powered on
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MTA gives itself 30 days to transform pit into basketball court
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FREE Course: Walkable City 1: Why Walkability?
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City of Rosemead
Rutgers University, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
One Hundred Miles
Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
The Architects Foundation
University of Cincinnati Online
City of Cambridge
Montrose County
The Pocatello Development Authority