Infill Infrastructure Grant Program of 2019: applications: eligibility.
The bill modifies how projects are evaluated, now requiring a stronger emphasis on walkability and transit accessibility to housing developments. By doing so, it aims to promote urban infill, reduce reliance on automobiles, and support sustainable developments that are better interconnected. The legislative amendments are designed to expand opportunities for funding, particularly in regions experiencing high growth pressures, facilitating the integration of necessary infrastructure in conjunction with housing projects.
Senate Bill 772, introduced by Senator Cabaldon, seeks to amend the Infill Infrastructure Grant Program of 2019 to enhance the ranking criteria for applications requesting funding for capital improvement projects. This bill emphasizes the importance of proximity to transit stations and essential services, shifting focus from social services to overall accessibility for housing developments. Additionally, it expands the definition of qualifying infill areas to include more types of project locations, making it easier for areas to qualify for grants under the program.
Notable points of contention related to SB 772 revolve around the requirements for affordable housing inclusion in projects. The bill offers alternatives for projects that may not meet the traditional affordability criteria, permitting mixed-use developments as long as they comply with streamlined and ministerial approvals. Critics may argue that this could dilute efforts to ensure sufficient affordable units within new developments, leading to ongoing debates about the balance between expedited approval processes and maintaining housing affordability.