RICHLAND, Wash. – The Richland City Council recently held a special workshop on July 22 to explore significant changes to parking regulations, which could reshape urban development in the community.
The meeting highlighted the passage of SB5184 during the Washington State Legislative Session, which aims to reform parking requirements, aligning with Richland’s goals of promoting affordable housing and sustainable urban growth.
One proposed change would reduce the current standard from 1 to 2 spaces per dwelling to 0.5 to 1 space, depending on the size of the residential use.
City planners noted that national trends show cities successfully abolishing minimum parking requirements, particularly in urban centers and transit corridors.
Bremerton and Bothell were cited as examples of cities that have recently eliminated such requirements as part of a broader movement towards more flexible parking policies.
The proposed changes are not expected to impact larger commercial entities such as hotels and educational institutions. However, they are seen as a strategic step towards revitalizing the Central Business District.
