Search Engine Why can’t we just turn the empty offices into apartments?
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Aug 4, 2023 
Bill Fulton, an expert in urban planning and former mayor, dives into the intriguing world of transforming vacant offices into apartments. He discusses the paradox of empty workspace amidst a housing crisis, exploring zoning laws and community resistance. Fulton shares fascinating concepts, from backyard roller coasters to tiny apartments in malls, shedding light on the complexities of urban development. The episode also features a humorous debate about a viral zoo video that questions identity, keeping the discussion lively and engaging!
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Documenting Empty Buildings
- Julia photographs empty buildings in Santa Rosa that she believes could be converted into apartments.
- Her frustration highlights the disconnect between available space and housing needs.
History of Zoning
- Zoning historically separated land uses due to concerns like toxic factories near homes.
- A classist and racist element emerged in the 1920s, with affluent single-family homeowners using zoning to separate themselves.
Exclusionary Zoning
- Los Angeles' first zoning law in 1904 banned laundries in certain residential areas, targeting Chinese-owned businesses.
- This reflects the use of zoning for exclusionary purposes.