SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane will be presented with the 2023 Smart Community Award on Wednesday, being recognized for its approach to housing through the “Building Opportunity and Choices for All” (BOCA) program.
According to the City of Spokane, “The BOCA Act modifies residential zoning to accelerate the construction of more housing in neighborhoods across Spokane. It diversifies and enhances affordable housing choices while increasing homeownership opportunities for those previously finding it out of reach.”
Spokane’s Planning and Economic Development departments worked with the Spokane City Council to implement the BOCA ordinance. The ordinance was initially passed in 2022 as a pilot program. Then, in Nov. 2023, the Council voted unanimously to extend the interim ordinance, updating development standards to increase housing diversity.
Spokane was among 11 cities recognized for its land use planning and development. The city was also acknowledged for effectively implementing Washington’s Growth Management Act.
Washington Governor Jay Inslee is set to present the award on Jan. 31 at 11:30 a.m.
