Proposed changes to state laws could allow empty office and retail spaces zoned for commercial use to be converted into housing. A group of bills introduced by House Democrats includes revisions to the Municipal Planning Code that would affect more than 600 cities, boroughs and townships that have a minimum population of five-thousand residents. Supporters say the intent is to improve the availability and affordability of housing in a market with limited stock and rising prices. The Pennsylvania Association of Realtors says many commercial listings are down because businesses don’t need as much office space due to remote working.
