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Average Unit-Size Density (AUD) Program

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On July 30, 2013, the City Council approved the Program Ordinance. This Program facilitates the creation of multi-unit housing and carries out a key implementation action of the City’s 2011 General Plan. The intent of the Program is to support the construction of smaller residential units near transit and within easy walking and biking distance to commercial services and activity centers. Increased densities and development standard incentives are allowed in most multi-family and commercial zones of the City to promote additional housing. Rental, employer-sponsored, and limited equity housing cooperative units that provide housing opportunities to the City’s workforce are especially encouraged.

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2023 Progress Report

July 2023 marks 10 years since the adoption of the Average Unit-Size Density Incentive (AUD) Program, which was intended to encourage the development of smaller, more attainable housing units in select areas of the city.

To gain insights on how well the AUD Program met its original objectives, the Planning Division produced an AUD Program Progress Report to analyze data and inform potential amendments to the AUD Program. Surveys and interviews with AUD stakeholders -- project applicants, developers, architects, housing advocates, and planners -- were conducted to analyze the Program's effectiveness. By sharing their experiences, they highlight aspects of city processes that could be prioritized for more efficiency and streamlining in the future. 

Amendments

The Program has been monitored closely since 2013 and amended multiple times to provide course corrections to better fulfill its purpose. The Program is undergoing potential amendment in 2024. 

Public Hearing Timeline

1
Planning Commission

Thursday, October 12, 2023 - Presentation of AUD Progress Report & Review of AUD Ordinance Amendment Trial Period 

2
Land Development Team Oversight Subcommittee

Thursday, October 26, 2023 - Overview of AUD Progress Report & AUD Program Trial Period Extension

3
Ordinance Committee

Tuesday, October 31, 2023 - AUD Program Trial Period Extension 

4
City Council

Tuesday, November 7, 2023 - AUD Program Trial Period Extension

5
Planning Commission

Thursday, November 9, 2023 - Continued discussion of AUD Progress Report