Aligning Housing and Transit at the National Service Coordinator Conference

During my time at the National Service Coordinator Conference in Indianapolis, I had the privilege of speaking about a topic close to my heart: integrating affordable housing initiatives with transit systems to enhance community accessibility and equity. My presentation emphasized the critical role transit plays in connecting marginalized communities including individuals with disabilities, families, and youth with essential resources such as employment, education, and healthcare.

Drawing on case studies and best practices from across the U.S., I shared actionable strategies for aligning transit and housing initiatives while addressing barriers like funding gaps and zoning challenges. I highlighted three case studies:

• Portland, Oregon MAX Light Rail System: Portland has successfully integrated affordable housing into its transit-oriented development strategy by providing incentives to developers and implementing inclusionary zoning policies.
• Denver, Colorado FasTracks Program: This initiative expanded Denver’s transit system while promoting affordable housing development along new transit lines through public-private partnerships and the use of affordable housing funds.
• Arlington County, Virginia Rosslyn-Ballston Corridor: Arlington’s TOD strategy emphasized high-density, mixed-use development along the Metro rail line, with a strong focus on maintaining affordable housing options through various funding mechanisms.

I also highlighted tools like the National Center for Mobility Management’s provider map, which helps service coordinators identify gaps and address unmet needs in their communities. Combining my background in housing and social work, I aimed to bridge policy and practice, inspiring sustainable and equitable development.

Beyond my presentation, the conference was a wonderful opportunity to connect with industry leaders and peers. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Melissa Harris, AASC’s Director of Government Affairs, who is instrumental in organizing this groundbreaking event. The 2024 National Service Coordinator Conference truly lived up to its promise of being exciting and innovative, providing a premier platform for supported housing professionals to network, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.

I also had the chance to connect with Tammy Madrid, a service coordinator from Albuquerque, New Mexico, who shared her compelling insights during the conference. Tammy spoke about the transportation barriers her community faces and the dire consequences for residents in Albuquerque. Despite the city introducing free bus rides in January 2024 (a move initially celebrated as progressive), the transit system has become fraught with safety concerns, including incidents of violence, open drug use, and overcrowded buses.

Tammy highlighted how these challenges have left residents fearful of using public transit, compounding their isolation, especially for seniors and others with limited mobility. Although the Department of Senior Affairs offers transportation for medical appointments, this service is limited to elderly residents or those with developmental disabilities. Ride-sharing options, such as GoGoGrandparent through Uber and Lyft, are often unaffordable for low-income residents, forcing them to choose between paying for a ride and having enough
money for food.

Tammy’s testimony shed light on the harsh realities faced by her community and others like it across the nation. Her question: how can we change this? remains a pressing challenge. It’s clear that addressing transportation barriers requires innovative solutions, funding, and collaboration across sectors to ensure that transit systems are not only affordable but also safe, reliable, and inclusive.

The conference left me energized and inspired by the collective efforts of those working to advance affordable housing and transit solutions. It was a powerful reminder that the challenges we face may be significant, but so too is our capacity to create meaningful change.