Berkeley's Zoning Code Rewrite to Boost Student Housing Availability
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Berkeleyside
The city of Berkeley is considering raising the height limit for buildings in the Southside neighborhood to 12 stories in an effort to address the student housing crunch. The proposed zoning changes would allow developers to construct taller apartment buildings along Telegraph Avenue and surrounding blocks. Supporters argue that increasing housing options near the campus will alleviate pressure on the rental market and prevent students from competing with long-time residents for apartments elsewhere in the city. The changes are part of a larger effort by the Berkeley Planning Commission to rewrite zoning rules and encourage more construction throughout the city.