Advisory Center for Affordable Settlements & Housing

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Edited By Saba Bilquis
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USA: Preserving Affordable Housing Near Transit

Regions across the United States are expanding public transportation systems to allow more residential choices, improve access to employment centers, reduce traffic congestion and lower levels of greenhouse gas emissions. Transportation accounts for nearly one-third of our country’s energy consumption. Increasing the number of dense, walkable, transit-connected neighborhoods promises shorter commutes, fewer traffic problems, improved air quality and a cleaner environment. Efficiently located housing, combined with energy efficiency and water conservation, contribute towards limiting the effects of climate change. T his report is designed to help community leaders, community development corporations (CDCs) and nonprofit affordable housing developers engage in preserving affordable housing near transit.1 It describes ways in which metropolitan areas are addressing preservation challenges and opportunities, and identifies the strategies and tools communities can use to preserve affordable housing in transit-rich neighborhoods. For low-income families, the ability to live in an affordable home near good public transportation translates into improved access to healthcare, education and employment opportunities, and reduced commuting costs. On average, working families spend 57 percent of their incomes on housing and transportation.3 Locating affordable housing near transit can significantly reduce this financial burden.

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