The Surprising Left-Right Alliance That Wants More Apartments in Suburbs
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Introduction:
In recent years, there has been a growing movement advocating for more apartments in suburbs as a solution to housing affordability and urban sprawl. What’s even more surprising is that this call for denser housing in suburban areas has brought together an unlikely alliance of both left-wing and right-wing advocates. This collaborative effort is breaking traditional political boundaries in an effort to address the housing crisis in a pragmatic and sustainable way.
In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind this unlikely alliance, the benefits of building more apartments in suburbs, and practical tips for how local governments and developers can work together to make this vision a reality.
The Left-Right Coalition:
The call for more apartments in suburbs has brought together individuals from across the political spectrum. On the left, progressive activists and housing advocates see denser housing as a way to promote affordability, combat gentrification, and reduce carbon emissions. On the right, free-market advocates and conservatives see it as a way to promote property rights, increase housing supply, and spur economic growth.
This unique collaboration is fueled by a shared belief that increasing housing options in suburbs can benefit residents of all backgrounds, create more vibrant and diverse communities, and address the systemic issues that have contributed to the housing crisis.
Benefits of More Apartments in Suburbs:
- Affordable Housing: Building more apartments in suburbs can help address the growing affordability crisis by providing a wider range of housing options for residents.
- Reduced Commuting: Denser housing in suburbs can reduce the need for long commutes, leading to less traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions.
- Increased Economic Opportunities: More apartments in suburbs can attract businesses and industry, creating jobs and stimulating local economies.
- Diverse Communities: Denser housing can lead to more diverse and inclusive communities, fostering connections between residents of different backgrounds.
Practical Tips for Implementation:
- Zoning Reform: Local governments can update zoning regulations to allow for higher-density development in suburban areas.
- Public Transportation: Investing in improved public transportation infrastructure can support denser housing by making it easier for residents to get around without a car.
- Community Engagement: Developers should engage with local residents to address concerns and ensure that new apartment buildings are compatible with the existing neighborhood.
- Incentives for Affordable Housing: Governments can provide incentives for developers to include affordable housing units in new apartment developments.
Case Studies:
- The city of Minneapolis, Minnesota, recently adopted a comprehensive plan that allows for the construction of triplexes and fourplexes in residential neighborhoods, paving the way for more diverse housing options in the suburbs.
- The town of Arlington, Virginia, implemented a transit-oriented development strategy that encourages the construction of mixed-use buildings with apartments near public transportation hubs, promoting walkability and reducing car dependence.
Conclusion:
The surprising left-right alliance that is pushing for more apartments in suburbs is challenging conventional wisdom and paving the way for innovative solutions to the housing crisis. By working together, advocates from all backgrounds can create more sustainable, affordable, and inclusive communities for future generations. As local governments, developers, and residents come together to embrace denser housing options, suburbs have the potential to evolve into vibrant and thriving hubs of activity and opportunity.