After two years of remote work, many workers reluctant to return to the office are compromising with less frequent, longer ‘super commutes.’
“Super-commuters aren’t a new phenomenon. In sprawling countries like the US, for example, some workers, mainly senior executives, have been commuting long distances for years.” Now, reports Bryan Lufkin, the phenomenon is becoming more common with all types of workers who moved away from their office locations during the pandemic.
“The group of super-commuters has expanded as companies have allowed middle-class knowledge workers to come into the office two days a week, or one week a month,” says Bill Fulton, director of the Kinder Institute for Urban Research at Rice University. Lufkin asks, “Could this new form of commuting be the future, as workers embrace hybrid, and build lives further away from urban hubs?”
The article describes several workers in the U.S. and England who are adjusting to their new super-commuting lives. While there are logistical challenges and some tension with employers who have a hard time letting go of constant supervision, most workers seem keen on continuing to work mostly remotely.
FULL STORY: The workers taking on new 'super commutes'
Forget the Bean Bag Chair: Workers Just Want Short Commutes
The office amenities of yore are out. Quick, painless commutes are in.
‘Super Commuting’ Hits Ten-Year Low
The number of Americans whose commutes take over three hours per day peaked in 2019, but dropped dramatically as remote work became more widespread.
Long Commutes in Seattle Fell Sharply During the Pandemic
The number of people commuting 20 minutes or more each way dropped by close to half a million, while short commutes rose slightly.
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?
Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.
Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.
LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions