North County Cities push Back Against State Housing law Aimed at Transit Corridors
Escondido, Carlsbad – A new state law intended to spur housing near transit hubs is facing resistance from several North County San Diego cities, raising questions about its implementation and potential impact on local progress. Senate Bill 79, signed into law last year, mandates streamlined approval for housing projects within a half-mile of major transit stops, but local officials are citing infrastructure limitations and concerns about density as reasons for hesitation.
Teh law aims to address California’s housing crisis by encouraging denser development near public transportation, reducing reliance on cars and promoting lasting communities. However, the applicability of SB 79 to North County’s transit systems – particularly the Coaster commuter rail – is being debated, with cities like Carlsbad questioning whether their existing infrastructure can support the level of development the law envisions. The stakes are high,as the bill could override local zoning regulations and considerably alter the character of communities along transit corridors.
Donaghy stated the Escondido Transit Center is one of the largest transit redevelopment sites in the region and is slated to have housing units. The North County Transit District is also in the early stages of a development project at the carlsbad Village Station.
Carlsbad officials expressed uncertainty about compliance with SB 79 during an October planning commission meeting, awaiting guidance from the state. Mayor Keith Blackburn articulated these concerns in a September letter, stating, ”The transportation and utilities infrastructure in Carlsbad is not suitable for the level of density SB 79 would impose.” Blackburn further explained that Carlsbad’s transit options – the Coaster and a limited bus network – lack the frequency and accessibility found in larger metropolitan areas, and the surrounding area lacks the necessary amenities to support high-density development.
