Olympia officials allay concerns about tall buildings around mall | The Olympian

The Olympia Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on January 6 to discuss the Capital Mall Triangle subarea plan, which aims to transform the area into a dense residential neighborhood. Proposed increases in building height limits have raised community concerns, but officials, including Planning Commissioner Daniel Garcia, suggest that significant construction is not expected in the near future due to high interest rates and current property values. Senior Planner David Ginther noted that affordable housing projects could emerge before market-rate developments if the city can partner with developers. The city is actively working to remove barriers to development and streamline the review process. While there is potential for taller buildings, substantial changes in the area may take time.

The overarching goal is to gradually develop the Capital Mall Triangle into a vibrant urban neighborhood.