More transit agencies are recognizing that it's not enough to build transit infrastructure if the people who really need it don't live close enough to use it.
According to an article on the TransitCenter website, transit agencies in Los Angeles and Seattle are "testing strategies to encourage affordable development near transit."
In Los Angeles, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority "is providing $9 million to developers at a low interest rate to build affordable housing within a half mile of transit lines" through its MATCH Loan Program. The California Endowment and local Community Development Financial Institutions donated enough to that pot of money to bring the total to $75 million.
In Seattle, "Sound Transit has begun deeply discounting property sales to make affordable housing projects pencil out." According to the article, "Washington State passed a new statute in 2015 – tied to the 2016 passage of the transit ballot measure ST3 – stipulating that Sound Transit must begin considering affordable housing outcomes in its capital projects."
The article includes a lot more detail from each of these two case studies, which have fundamental differences and critical lessons for other transit agencies looking to better connect housing options to transit options.
FULL STORY: Affordable Housing: A Next Frontier for Transit?
Alternatives Explored for West Seattle and Ballard Light Rail Extensions
Plans to extend the Sound Transit light rail system are moving forward. Elected officials have a big choice to make that will determine the cost and scope of the projects.
Checking in on the Progress of the Sound Transit 3 Plan
The Seattle area's $53.8 billion transit expansion plan is moving along in fits and starts.
The Northgate Link Extension Is Great, But Voters Want More
A recent survey of Seattle voters finds widespread support for the continued expansion of the Link light rail system in Seattle.
Study: Maui’s Plan to Convert Vacation Rentals to Long-Term Housing Could Cause Nearly $1 Billion Economic Loss
The plan would reduce visitor accommodation by 25,% resulting in 1,900 jobs lost.
North Texas Transit Leaders Tout Benefits of TOD for Growing Region
At a summit focused on transit-oriented development, policymakers discussed how North Texas’ expanded light rail system can serve as a tool for economic growth.
Why Should We Subsidize Public Transportation?
Many public transit agencies face financial stress due to rising costs, declining fare revenue, and declining subsidies. Transit advocates must provide a strong business case for increasing public transit funding.
How to Make US Trains Faster
Changes to boarding platforms and a switch to electric trains could improve U.S. passenger rail service without the added cost of high-speed rail.
Columbia’s Revitalized ‘Loop’ Is a Hub for Local Entrepreneurs
A focus on small businesses is helping a commercial corridor in Columbia, Missouri thrive.
Invasive Insect Threatens Minnesota’s Ash Forests
The Emerald Ash Borer is a rapidly spreading invasive pest threatening Minnesota’s ash trees, and homeowners are encouraged to plant diverse replacement species, avoid moving ash firewood, and monitor for signs of infestation.
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