University Place Moves Forward with Middle Housing Initiative Following State Legislation

The Washington State Legislature's passage of Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 1110 in 2023 mandates that University Place incorporate middle housing types by June 2025. Following this, Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2321 was enacted in 2024 to refine and clarify aspects of the original bill. As a result, University Place is proactively studying its obligations and preparing to engage the community regarding middle housing priorities. This engagement will unfold over the coming months as the city seeks input on policy and design standards. The aim is to create flexible design standards that ensure new middle housing fits well within the character of existing low-density residential neighborhoods.

By prioritizing community involvement, University Place hopes to balance the need for increased housing options with the preservation of neighborhood aesthetics. These efforts reflect a growing recognition of the importance of diverse housing solutions in urban planning. With middle housing initiatives gaining traction, University Place is positioning itself as a forward-thinking community committed to addressing housing challenges.