It used to be that if you were looking for a place to live, one of the downsides was finding a home near a train or bus stop. The noise and extra traffic were considered negatives. Not so much anymore! According to a national public opinion survey by HNTB, 73%  support zoning regulations in their communities that would encourage transit oriented development. Millennials are the largest part of this group. Their life styles are such that they want and depend on public transportation. I can understand that very well as I have a son who works and lives in Manhattan and has never owned a car. He doesn’t need one. He and his wife use public transportation and the very popular Uber and Lyft car companies. Americans value the ability to get somewhere without owning a vehicle to get them there. Millennials especially are willing to pay more for their mortgage or rent in order to have this option. This sends a clear message about the growing interest and importance of transit oriented development. This type of development would include a mix of housing, jobs, shops, restaurants , and entertainment. If you look at this from an environmental and economic position, it would greatly reduce the need for driving and energy consumption by up to 85%.

So, public transportation agencies as well as state and local governments are responding to this new public movement. They have the ability and resources to create new opportunities that can enhance people’s lives and build new communities for the future.