How Local Government Can Help the Affordability Problem

Governing has an interesting article about three ways in which local government can make our communities more affordable. First, it suggests ways that zoning can be used to make housing less expensive. Second, it proposes ways of making mass transit or alternative transportation more attractive. Third, it argues that utility costs can be reduced through efficiency-enhanced technology. While all three of these paths are worth pursuing, I'd like to focus on transportation. 

We spend a lot of money on transportation. In 2023, U.S. households spent an average $13,174 for transportation, making it the second-largest per annum household expenditure after housing. Unfortunately, the state legislature refused to go along with Governor Josh Shapiro's request to increase the amount of money spent on mass transit. But this is where local governments can step in to reduce the amount of money we spend to drive. Reducing that amount by 25% would save families $3,200 a year. 

First, county government should continue its investment in trail infrastructure. Though most people use these trails for fitness or pleasure, they are also commuting routes. I use trails as part of my commute to the courthouse when weather permits and see plenty of others who do so as well. 

Second, county and municipal government should focus on remote work opportunities for public servants who do not interact personally with the public. Human Services workers, for example, should be trained and encouraged to work at least part of their time from home. 

Third, county and municipal government should offer a bonus to workers who are unable to work remotely but reside within 10 miles of their workplace. 

Fourth, county and municipal government should implement bike share programs where you can rent a bike or an ebike at a reasonable fee and then return after use to any of strategically place hubs. Philly uses Indego at a cost of $4 a month, with ebikes costing 7 cents a minute more. During the cold months, you can drive. But during the eight months of the year that you can regularly ride, this can save a lot of money for groceries or a home. 

Finally, county and local government should invest more in mass transit. Unfortunately, there is a stigma attached to bus people, but the best way to change that is to start using it. Where I live, the buses come by less frequently than in Bethlehem or Easton. But I can drive or cycle to Walmart, and from there can pretty much go wherever I want. I am sure we all could make better use of mass transit and should be encouraged to do so.