Like in all major cities around the world, Los Angeles is not immune to rising housing prices, caused, among other factors, by a shortage of supply compared to an increasingly pressing demand. In response to this reality, a bill aims to address this issue while also encouraging the use of the city’s transit networks.
The bill in question is SB 79, which seeks to upzone thousands of parcels throughout California, allowing for more dense housing near major transit centers. Lots within a quarter mile of B and D line subway stops, including those under construction for the D-line expansion project, would have the tallest new height limits set at seven stories.
According to YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard), a statewide organization that advocates for increased housing density and affordability in California, SB 79 will legalize the construction of more multifamily housing near transit hubs. This will include areas currently zoned exclusively for single-family homes, by permitting upzoning and rezoning near rail stations and rapid bus lines.
The new measure aims to improve housing affordability by boosting the number of available homes in these locations, while also encouraging greater use of public transit and strengthening the financial stability of transit systems.
SB 79 was introduced on January 15, 2025. Since then, it has steadily gained momentum — clearing the Senate Housing Committee on April 22 and passing the Senate Local Government Committee on April 30. The next stop for the bill is the Senate Appropriations Committee, where it will continue to move through the legislative process.