Public transit critical to handle area growth

Regarding affordable housing in high-growth areas like Northwest Arkansas, we do not have to over-develop our historic downtown areas to meet the demand for housing.

Density does not automatically equate to affordability. Preserving the single-family and often historic neighborhoods downtown are critical to the culture. Density will have limits unless we expand all over the city to create neighborhoods with a mixture of housing types and shopping and other services. People should not have to move to the suburbs to find single-family homes and those choosing to live in apartments should not be isolated in areas no one else wants to live. There never will be enough space to put everyone within walking distance to their employment.

The key to economic viability is affordable, reliable and meaningful transportation. Without a public transportation system that connects all corners of the city with health care, educational systems, shopping and employment as well as the other amenities important to quality living, there will not be adequate housing.

Public transportation builds thriving communities, creates jobs, eases traffic congestion and promotes a cleaner environment. Studies in cities like Durham, N.C., and Austin, Texas, show a 2-to-1 return on investment for communities that commit to a public transit system. For every dollar invested in public transportation there is a $5 economic return and that flows into the private sector.

CINDY ACREE Bentonville