Seattle’s zoning code is being revised to extend housing. The revision should additionally contemplate our tree cover. Giant timber present shade in a warming local weather, shield biodiversity, filter out dangerous particulates and enhance bodily and psychological well being.
The present proposal to permit three or 4 models on single-family tons with out altering the underlying zoning guidelines will end in slim and darkish 10-foot areas between buildings. This method forces builders to chop down present timber and leaves inadequate room for substitute.
Quite than mandating slim yards, as present zoning does, a brand new zoning code may shield the tree cover by substituting a variety of 20-foot-diameter circles, say six circles for a typical 50 x 120 foot lot, in lieu of the present guidelines. These circles would supply sufficient house for tree planting and preservation, whereas allotting the identical quantity of buildable floor for housing, and provides flexibility to builders within the placement and format of buildings.
Seattle has a objective of reaching 35% tree cover, however until the town proactively zones for timber with its effort to carry extra housing, the cover will disappear.
Jeffrey and Sarah Luth, Seattle
