What can be done about the 'missing middle' of housing in Washington?
We're in the thick of the state's 60-day legislative session, and lawmakers are in the middle of tackling a massive hot-button issue: housing density.
Members of the state House and Senate are considering bills that would open up the land that’s currently reserved for single-family residences, in order to allow more units.
Think duplexes, triplexes, and small backyard cottage apartments.
Advocates say changing the zoning regulations would help cities find the "missing middle" of housing here in Washington state.
But mayors across the state — including Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell — are skeptical.
Soundside host Libby Denkmann spoke to KUOW growth and development reporter Joshua McNichols about one neighborhood in Auburn that's feeling the growing pains of current zoning rules.
She also spoke to South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity CEO Carly Colgan.
Colgan supports the proposed legislation and shared how limited access to middle housing has stalled the growth of Thurston County.
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Libby Denkmann
Host, Soundside
Libby Denkmann joined KUOW in December 2021 as the host of the midday show Soundside. She’s a native Pacific Northwesterner who grew up in Redmond, graduated from the University of Washington and covered local news as a producer and reporter with KIRO Radio.
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Joshua McNichols
Growth and Development Reporter
Joshua's "growing pains" beat sits at the nexus of housing, transportation, urban planning, and the economy. His favorite stories also include themes of history, technology and climate change.
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Noel Gasca
Producer, Soundside
Noel is a producer for KUOW’s midday show Soundside. Prior to joining Soundside, Noel worked as an online editor/producer with KUOW’s web team. She’s also a proud graduate of KUOW’s RadioActive program.
More stories from Noel Gasca »
