[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 101 (Monday, June 1, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E506]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 INTRODUCTION OF THE PROMOTING EQUITABLE TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT 
                       AND MOBILITY CORRIDORS ACT

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                     HON. JESUS G. ``CHUY'' GARCIA

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 1, 2020

  Mr. GARCIA of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise to introduce the 
Promoting Equitable Transit-Oriented Development and Mobility Corridors 
Act along with my colleague Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman.
  Pent-up demand for walkable communities has accelerated land prices 
and rents which has displaced both small businesses and affordable 
housing faster than state and local governments can respond. 
Additionally, suburban and rural communities lack the resources needed 
to upgrade their local infrastructure, housing and economic strategies 
to remain economically viable.
  The Promoting Equitable Transit-Oriented Development and Mobility 
Corridors Act will combat housing affordability issues and displacement 
of businesses by reversing the incentive to build luxury dwellings near 
transit. Instead, the bill will promote affordable housing development 
near transit and in priority investment areas.
  This legislation establishes an Office of Equitable Transit Oriented 
Development in the DOT, creates incentives to combat gentrification, 
promotes affordable housing near transit, and reduces vehicle miles 
traveled and carbon emissions. It will also allow rural, suburban, and 
urban governments to develop more equitable planning practices through 
Technical Assistance grants.
  I am glad that the Promoting Equitable Transit-Oriented Development 
and Mobility Corridors Act is endorsed by Elevated Chicago, The Chicago 
Community Trust, Smart Growth America, LOCUS: Responsible Real Estate 
Developers and Investors and Transportation for America.
  The Promoting Equitable Transit-Oriented Development and Mobility 
Corridors Act will ensure all Americans have equal access to healthy, 
walkable and prosperous communities.
  I urge this body to swiftly pass this legislation.

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