In terms of quality of life issues, things haven't changed much over the years. People are looking for quality schools, workable transportation, jobs within a reasonable commute. More than an hour commute each way can be a breaking point for people. They want a community that works. It takes balance.
Quality of life is the end result of balancing many factors.
Because of the growth throughout the region, Barrett emphasizes that different types of development or redevelopment tools come into play, depending on the history of that part of the region. Redeveloping brownfields and revitalizing traditional neighborhoods require different strategies than what is needed in creating new sensible growth and development at the edge of the region. We always have an eye on issues like accessibility to transit, making it pedestrian-friendly, and including a plan for open space. Barrett brings up another issue that ties into the sensible growth and redevelopment equation. There currently exists a mismatch between available affordable housing and available jobs.