PHOENIX — The City of Phoenix is changing how it approves development projects, in an effort to speed up construction on more affordable housing units.
The rising cost of rent and housing in the Valley has been plaguing local residents for the last few years and several cities have been scrambling to increase the local housing inventory.
Previous research by the city found Phoenix had a shortage of around 100,000 affordable rental units back in 2020.
On Wednesday, the Phoenix City Council amended changes to its plat approval process to potentially accelerate the amount of time it takes to build new housing projects.
The change includes allowing administrative approval for final plats without a review from the city council, which would cut down the approval time process by at least 30 days.
“This is another process improvement the city is implementing to assist in building more affordable housing projects,” Vice Mayor Debra Stark said in a statement. "Avoiding delays in the homebuilding process helps keep housing prices affordable.”
Phoenix was legally allowed to make changes to its development process after Arizona lawmakers passed new legislation last year.
“The solution to our housing crisis isn’t going to be solved by one state bill or one local council decision alone," Phoenix Councilwoman Ann O'Brien said in a statement. "By cutting red tape and reducing bureaucracy, this is one more step Phoenix is taking to lead the efforts against the housing crisis.”
The new process takes effect on April 1.
*Editor's Note: The above video is from an earlier broadcast in 2023.*
UP TO SPEED
Watch 12News+ for free
You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12News+ app!
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.
Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives.
Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for "12 News KPNX."
Amazon Fire TV: Search for "12 News KPNX" to find the free 12News+ app to add to your account, or have the 12News+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.