Sen. Goehner gains bipartisan support for ‘middle-housing’ proposal to boost new construction and improve affordability

Sen. Keith Goehner, R-Dryden, on the floor of the State Senate in Olympia April 12.

Increasing the availability of affordable housing opportunities across Washington is the aim of proposed legislation that has been passed by the House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support. If the Senate concurs, Senate Bill 5471, authored by Sen. Keith Goehner, R-Dryden, will be offered to the Governor for his signature.

Goehner's legislation would empower counties to authorize multi-family housing, like duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes, in areas currently zoned only for single-family homes. It applies not only to urban growth areas (UGAs), but also to designated rural zones such as Limited Areas of More Intensive Rural Development (LAMIRDs) and fully contained communities.

The bill is a strategic effort to address Washington’s housing crisis by diversifying housing options, improving affordability, and supporting smart land-use planning.

“We’re giving communities more tools to create housing that meets real-world needs,” said Goehner. “Middle housing isn’t about radical change but realistic growth. It gives families more options and helps us use existing infrastructure wisely, without compromising the unique character of our neighborhoods.”

SB 5471 would build on the momentum of recent housing reforms by extending zoning flexibility beyond city boundaries. If it becomes law, counties that plan under the state’s Growth Management Act (GMA) would be able to authorize up to four housing units per lot in eligible areas, enabling controlled, moderate-density increases where infrastructure already exists.

“We’ve struck a balance between encouraging growth and protecting what makes our communities special,” Goehner added. “This bill promotes affordability, respects local character, and allows more families to put down roots in places they love.”

The measure aims to reduce barriers to housing development while preserving open space and preventing sprawl. By focusing growth where infrastructure is already in place, the legislation aligns with long-term sustainability goals and helps prevent the overextension of public resources.