Building Lives Through Transit-Oriented Housing: A New Path for Residents

Thu Nov 13 2025 10:35:29 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Cities nationwide are revolutionizing housing strategies by placing affordable living spaces near public transit. This initiative aims to combat homelessness and energize communities, giving residents like Quantavia Smith a new lease on life.

Cities across America, from Los Angeles to Boston, are focusing on housing developments near public transportation to tackle homelessness and high living costs. The Santa Monica and Vermont Apartments are a shining example, helping residents like Quantavia Smith transition from homelessness to independent living. With government assistance and affordable rent, many residents are experiencing newfound stability, as city officials push for improved zoning regulations to support transit-oriented housing.

BOSTON (AP) — After years of living on the street and crashing at friends’ places, Quantavia Smith finally moved into a studio apartment in Los Angeles, which offers her a vital advantage: close proximity to public transit.

Now 38, she describes her previous life as feeling like no one cares, but that has changed significantly with her new safe and stable living environment. The metro station located just beneath her apartment complex acts as a critical resource as she seeks employment without the use of a car.

“It gives me relief and independence,” says Smith, who transitioned into her new space in July. Benefiting from government assistance, she now pays a mere $19 per month toward her rent of $2,000, contributing 30% of her income towards housing, to which she describes, “Having your own space makes you feel capable of anything.”

This innovative approach towards housing near public transit is being adopted in metropolitan areas from Los Angeles to Boston. These cities are collaborating with developers and implementing policies that streamline the permitting process to foster affordable housing developments in accessible locations.

City officials underline that by constructing housing near public transit, they can revive neglected neighborhoods, keep transit systems financially viable, and curb greenhouse gas emissions by reducing reliance on vehicles.

“Transit-oriented development could provide one of the biggest solutions for housing woes,” explains Yonah Freemark, research director at the Urban Institute’s Land Use Lab. “It utilizes the significant investment made into transportation infrastructure.”

From D.C. to L.A.: Transit Housing Initiatives

Smith's new home in LA is part of a bold initiative by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority to build 10,000 housing units near transit locations by 2031, incentivizing developers through land discounts.

In Washington D.C., eight completed projects since 2022 have yielded nearly 1,500 affordable apartments, heavily supported by Amazon’s multimillion-dollar commitment. These projects are all situated within half a mile of public transit, showcasing how critical locations are for future stability.

Freemark noted that all major cities must tackle traffic congestion and high housing costs effectively. Providing new homes close to transit systems supports people in utilizing public transportation while simultaneously boosting the housing supply.

Changing Zoning Regulations

As states such as California and Colorado begin to amend restrictive zoning laws that previously hindered the development of affordable multi-family housing, the ground is beginning to shift. California now allows taller apartment buildings on land adjacent to transit facilities.

Throughout Massachusetts, Governor Maura Healey is spearheading housing initiatives—a 2021 law requires localities to create zoning districts supporting multifamily developments. As a result, over 6,000 housing units are currently being developed.

“We want to ensure mixed-income, walkable communities around transit investments, providing residents with reduced dependence on cars. It’s about enabling people to live fuller, more convenient lives,” explained Rep. Julia Reed in Washington.

Overcoming Challenges

While these ambitious projects can rejuvenate communities, opposition from local residents and financial strains can hinder progress. Increased construction costs, rising interest rates, and stringent regulatory practices contribute to significant barriers. A 2023 Urban Institute analysis illustrates that over the last two decades, nine times more housing units were created away from transit compared to those built nearby.

In Los Angeles’s East Hollywood, Smith’s six-story complex is contributing to revitalizing the area. It is home to 300 residents, including formerly homeless individuals, while various community establishments, including grocery stores and medical clinics, will come up alongside it.

“I’m incredibly fortunate to have transit access that brings me wherever I need to go,” Smith remarked, emphasizing the critical aspect of public transport to her newfound independence.