Middle housing project background
The City of Bothell is considering different approaches to allow more 'middle housing' in residential neighborhoods. Middle housing consists of residential buildings with more than one housing unit, compatible in scale and form with single-family homes. Examples of middle housing include duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, courtyard apartments, cottage developments, and townhomes. Middle housing provides a greater diversity of options to meet a variety of housing needs and affordability levels, can expand income opportunities for homeowners, and can provide housing for extended family members.
Why are we evaluating middle housing options?
There is a shortage of affordable housing and housing supply in the Puget Sound region. The 2018 Bothell Housing Strategy identified middle housing as one solution to meet the regional need for housing. The proposed code changes are one of many strategies Bothell is undertaking to make sure there is housing opportunity in Bothell.
To facilitate more middle housing, the City is considering the following approaches:
- Allow middle housing in new subdivisions, with density bonuses and affordability requirements.
- Allow middle housing in all residential zones.
- Require affordable housing units in a portion of all new subdivisions.
- Create flexibility in development standards to facilitate middle housing.
- Reduce barriers to accessory dwelling unit (ADU) development.
- Reduce parking requirements for middle housing near transit or regional trails.
Image Source: Opticos Design, missingmiddlehousing.com.
What are the next steps?
City Council will hold two study sessions on middle housing code amendments on January 17 and February 7, 2023. A public hearing will also be held in February and is your chance to make public testimony, written or verbal, to be considered before City Council makes a formal decision. Visit the Middle Housing Webpage for additional details.