California is in a tough spot. The state is grappling with high housing costs and climate change. The lack of affordable housing forces many people to move farther from jobs, schools, and essential services. This not only leads to higher carbon emissions due to increased driving but also puts more stress on natural areas that can help absorb carbon and protect against climate risks, like wildfires.
Building homes in well-developed areas, or infill housing, can help tackle these issues. Denser neighborhoods mean we can use less land and make better use of existing roads and utilities, cutting down on energy and water use. It’s crucial to create more housing near public transit and to increase the number of multifamily units and small homes in existing neighborhoods.
Although California has made some strides since 2017 with new laws to boost housing, we’re still falling short. The next governor will need to keep pushing local governments to build enough homes, especially in places that reduce reliance on cars.
Here are some key steps the next governor could take:
- Reduce housing costs: Development expenses are high, especially in coastal areas. Solutions might include factory-built homes and reforming building codes to make life easier for small developers.
- Coordinate planning: Regional planning for growth needs to align better with local land use. This will ensure that housing, land use, and transport planning work together smoothly.
- Boost funding: Current state funds aren’t enough. Additional financial support is needed to meet housing demands. Exploring funds from vehicle mileage taxes or reallocating transport budgets could help.
Experts emphasize the need for urgent action. According to a recent study from the Terner Center for Housing Innovation, California needs to produce 3.5 million more homes by 2025 to keep up with demand. Communities that embrace new housing options may not only ease costs but also lower emissions significantly.
Public sentiment is shifting too, with a growing number of Californians expressing concern about housing affordability. Social media platforms are buzzing with discussions about sustainable development and innovative housing solutions, reflecting a change in priorities among voters.
For more in-depth information on the intersection of housing and climate challenges facing California, check out the Housing and Climate brief and explore ongoing insights at the California Climate Vote.
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California,Climate Change,Climate Policy,Climate Politics,election,governor,housing
