Palo Alto Commission Encourages Construction Of In-Law Units
PALO ALTO (KCBS) – More affordable housing may be on the horizon for Palo Alto, as the City Council will consider new recommendations after the first of the new year.
The Palo Alto Planning and Transportation Commission is supporting Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), more commonly known as in-law or granny units.
The state recently passed legislation doing away with some permits and fees for such housing, and Palo Alto looks to go a step further.
"That we do incorporate these junior accessory dwelling units as part of our local program," Assistant Director of Planning Jonathan Lait told KCBS.
Junior accessory units are created by converting an existing bedroom in a home and adding a kitchenette.
Lait said there are benefits beyond supplemental income for owners.
"Giving an opportunity for people to age in place. It creates an opportunity for multi-generational housing, creating a space for returning graduates or children with special needs," Lait explained.
Lot size requirements would be eased so that granny units can be built on standard-sized lots.
"We do see that there will be more opportunities to participate in the program. How many more? We don't know," Lait said.
The city will also explore underground parking, where elevator lifts could house cars underneath residents' properties.