Pittsburgh zoning, development rules would see big changes in Gainey bid for affordable housing

Pittsburgh’s zoning laws are being targeted for a major overhaul by Mayor Ed Gainey’s administration as part of an attempt to halt the exodus of low- and moderate-income Black residents from the city.In response to a 2022 housing needs assessment study, Gainey and a lineup of city officials Thursday proposed: Expanding the geographical spread of rules that require affordable housing as part of new development Removing minimum parking requirements for new developments Creating multi-family development near public transportation hubs Allowing accessory dwelling units [ADUs] on residential, community center or religious institution property. ADUs are commonly referred to as backyard cottages, granny flats or in-law suites, and have gained popularity across the country in places like Boston, Chicago and West Coast cities.“I just want to say that this is what happens when you never give up the fight. I want to say that a lot of times we have talked about being able to create a city for all and change things, and a lot of times people didn’t believe it,” Gainey said at a press conference on the City-County Building portico.“We are in the midst of an affordable housing crisis, a crisis that has been coming for decades, and we...