Tag Archives: transportation alternatives
City Growth – The Smart Way
There has been much discussion about growth in my community and its impacts upon the quality of life of residents. I live in Silicon Valley which is currently undergoing an upturn in high-tech job growth which is considered healthy for our economy. But we are paying a heavy price in traffic congestion which is impacting our quality of life with more street noise, greater difficulty in getting around town, less safe streets, and increased air pollution…. But what if the cities planned new high density housing along existing transit corridors leading to major job centers in our city? What if there was a development within walking or biking distance from a major work center like Apple or Google where there was a large affordable housing complex incorporating a shopping center, daycare, offices for doctors, lawyers, etc. and even a school and library… Continue reading
Sustainable Growth – A More Enduring Future
Today more than ever before many communities are feeling the effects of growth. Growth happens most in regions where there is a demand for jobs. For example in Silicon Valley in California many high-tech and social media companies flourish alongside community colleges and universities scattered throughout the region. Young students come from all over the country and world to study there and many are later offered jobs requiring their skills Others seeking job opportunities travel from all over the nation to take jobs there. But growth has consequences, especially rapid growth. Housing near jobs are in great demand and thus are expensive and unavailable. Since cars are almost the sole mode of transportation in the U.S. the roads and freeways become congested with people trying to commute to work from a distance. Continue reading
U.S. Public Transportation Failures
America’s love affair with their cars continues unabated as auto sales continue to increase making that industry and oil companies richer each year. Cars are among our most expensive and cherished possessions. But there are costs associated with car ownership … Continue reading