Looks like DC will be undergoing a big downzoning over the controversial issue of the popup. Popups are where people add an extra floor to existing rowhouses. Ostensibly, this is due to the ugly design of many popups. But in practice, it is closely related is the issue that many developers buy up rowhouses and convert them into small multi-unit apartment buildings. The downzoning proposal is meant to address both issues by making these additions/conversions far more difficult. Since there is no offsetting unzoning, this on net good for prices and bad for middle class affordability. In practice, it is hard to know big an impact this will actually have in the real world? But, it can in no way increase supply or lower prices. In theory, this should make buying a larger rowhouses in key areas little less expensive than they otherwise would be, because you will not be competing with developers for conversions. But, this is like saying global warming is a mixed bag because we will get less snow, because it will also limit the number of smaller "middle class" units and reduce the potential size of the DC condo market. Many people would have otherwise live in converted condo in chic neighborhood will instead look to row houses in cheaper areas of the city or the suburbs. So, it will probably spread gentrification and just push single family home prices up in other areas of the city.
Basically, this is a classic case balancing increasing supply in a growing city vs. preserving the existing character of the city. It is really more of a value judgment than a clear right or wrong.
Personally, I think right solution is to add some sort of design review process to limit ugly pop ups. IMO, it's silly to be downzoning in walkable transit accessible areas in an already expensive city with limited buildable land and a height limit. But, that is just me.
DC’s Pop-Up Proposal Brings Heated Debate to Zoning Commission
January16, 2015
By Lark Turner
Urban Turf
http://dc.urbanturf.com/articles/blo...ommission/9413
Where Zoning Commissioners Stand on DC’s Proposed Pop-Up Rule
February 10, 2015
By Lark Turner
Urban Turf
"The Zoning Commission is strongly divided on a proposed rule aimed at stopping residential pop-ups in DC. But if commissioners’ opinions hold steady, the rule is likely to be implemented on a divided vote."
http://dc.urbanturf.com/articles/blo...p-up_rule/9513