Lacey explores new guidelines for Neighborhood Commercial Districts 

The Lacey Planning Commission has taken big steps toward updating the city's neighborhood commercial districts, with a set of recommendations that could reshape local zoning laws.  

After community engagement over the past year and a half, city officials are now making decisions on how tall buildings should be and where people can live in these areas. 

On April 10, the Planning Commission unanimously endorsed a preliminary draft for the Neighborhood Commercial District (NCD) to the Lacey City Council.  

The draft, which can be accessed via the city's project webpage, proposes alignment of local zoning laws with the city’s long-term goals. 

During a council work session on May 14, council members explored proposed amendments to the existing codes.  

A key point of discussion centered around establishing minimum building heights for ground-floor commercial spaces. Citing findings from comparable districts in neighboring municipalities such as Olympia and Tacoma, where minimum heights range from 12 to 15 feet, the Planning Commission recommended a minimum height of 15 feet for Lacey's commercial developments.  

Moreover, in response to rising housing needs, the commission proposed amendments allowing ground-floor residential units within NCDs.  

This proposal, discussed at a public hearing on March 13, received substantial community feedback, with a majority in favor of integrating housing options into commercial areas. 

Addressing affordability concerns, the draft recommends that all ground-floor residential units meet specific affordability criteria outlined in RCW 36.70A.030(5).  

This legislative framework sets thresholds ensuring housing costs remain within thirty percent of median household incomes, facilitating pathways to homeownership for local residents. 

Following the public hearing, the Planning Commission explored three alternative approaches to enhance housing availability and affordability. 

The city council will decide on the proposed amendments of the Planning Commission in an upcoming public meeting. 

Correction, June 17, 2024: We made a minor correction to clarify the first paragraph.