The Los Angeles City Council is poised to approve a significant change to building regulations that would allow new apartment buildings of up to six stories to be constructed with a single stairway instead of the traditional two. This proposal, spearheaded by Councilmembers Nithya Raman and Katy Yaroslavsky, aims to accelerate housing development in response to the city’s ongoing housing crisis, particularly by facilitating the construction of larger apartments suitable for families. The new regulations would limit each floor to four units and require additional fire safety measures, such as enhanced sprinkler systems.
This change, however, is not without controversy. Proponents argue that the double stairway requirement, in place since 1981, presents a barrier to housing construction, especially on smaller lots where the second stairway contributes significantly to construction costs and limits design flexibility. Urban planners and developers believe that revising these requirements could lead to a more diverse housing stock, including family-sized units that are currently scarce in Los Angeles.
Critics, including representatives from the International Association of Fire Fighters, express grave concerns regarding potential safety risks, particularly in emergencies. They warn that a single stairway could impede evacuation efforts, limiting escape routes during fires or earthquakes and complicating firefighting operations. Notably, concerns about seismic safety have been emphasized, especially in a city with significant earthquake risk.
The implications of this decision could dramatically shape the future of urban development in Los Angeles. If approved, it may set a precedent for other cities struggling with similar housing shortages while igniting a debate on safety versus the urgent need for more affordable housing. As the council weighs the proposed changes, the balance between fostering necessary growth and ensuring public safety remains a focal point of contention.
via www.latimes.com