Bipartisan Legislation Aims to Address US Housing Shortage with Transit-Oriented Development

Strategic Insights -

As the national housing shortage continues to worsen, with 47% of renter households being cost-burdened, lawmakers are seeking solutions to address the crisis. The Build More Housing Near Transit Act, reintroduced by U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) and Mike Braun (R-Ind.), aims to incentivize local governments to build more housing near federally funded transit projects. This bipartisan legislation has garnered support from various organizations, including Up for Growth Action, the American Planning Association, and the National Apartment Association.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Build More Housing Near Transit Act would direct the Secretary of Transportation to provide a scoring boost to competitive grant applications for public transit projects with housing development near new stations.
  • The legislation would encourage local governments to build more housing near transit systems, reduce costs for households, and increase access to jobs and public transportation.
  • Currently, 47% of renter households are cost-burdened, with transportation costs being a significant burden.
  • By building more housing in transit areas, the bill aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable communities.
  • The legislation is endorsed by Up for Growth Action, the American Planning Association, and the National Apartment Association.
  • Supporters of the bill, including YIMBY Action and the American Planning Association, believe that effective planning and coordination of transit, housing, jobs, and land use are essential for tackling the housing supply and affordability crisis.
  • The bill encourages local governments to improve their housing and zoning policies through land use and zoning reforms.

Statistics:

  • 47% of renter households are cost-burdened, meaning more than 30% of their income goes towards housing.
  • Transportation costs are often a household's second-largest expenditure, behind housing.
  • If passed, the Build More Housing Near Transit Act would help increase access to jobs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and encourage the creation of housing that uses less land.
  • The bill aims to increase public transportation ridership and encourage the creation of walkable, livable, and equitable communities.

Sources:

  • Up for Growth Action: No specific date
  • American Planning Association: "APA Supports Build More Housing Near Transit Act" (No date)
  • National Apartment Association: "NAA Supports Build More Housing Near Transit Act" (No date)
  • YIMBY Action: No specific date
  • Build More Housing Near Transit Act: No specific date
  • Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii): "Schatz, Braun Introduce Bill to Address Housing Shortage by Building Near Transit" (No date)
  • Senator Mike Braun (R-Ind.): "Braun, Schatz Reintroduce Bill to Address Housing Shortage by Building Near Transit" (No date)