Surprise Survey Finding on Density in the Bay Area

A poll by the Bay Area Council reveals that over half of respondents, all Bay Area residents, are so concerned about the high cost of living that they are willing to accept increased density in their neighborhoods, particularly if new housing is affordable.

"Housing woes in the Bay Area have become so severe that two out of three residents now believe it's tougher to find a place to live, and at least half are ready to embrace higher-density housing in their neighborhoods to help tackle the problem, a poll released (June 25) shows," writes George Avalos for the San Jose Mercury News.

Higher-density housing development was supported by 56 percent of Santa Clara County residents, 55 percent of Alameda County residents and 53 percent of San Francisco residents, according to the poll.

What's more, 76 percent of residents want policy makers and developers to direct their efforts toward the creation of certain types of housing. Specifically, respondents want the focus on housing for low- and middle-income people

"Water isn't the only thing that is in short supply in the Bay Area," said Jim Wunderman, president of the Bay Area Council. "Our region is growing, our economy is humming, but the housing shortage could be our Achilles heel."

Hat tip to Gladwyn D'Souza.