United Way of Morris County News
Recent News
Morris County Municipal Economic Summit Tackles Housing Issues
May 26, 2005
On May 18th, 2005, the Morris County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) co-hosted this event with the County of Morris and the Morris County Chamber of Commerce. United Way of Morris County is a member of the MCEDC.
Attending the Summit were municipalities, non-profits, businesses, planners, attorneys, architects and others from the County. Pat Bomus represented United Way’s Safe and Vital Neighborhoods Action Team at the event.
Two workshops were offered at the Summit: Improving & Invigorating Your Downtown Business District and Establishing Effective Economic Development Committees.
The main topic at this second workshop was the linkage between affordable housing and economic development. The speaker was Thomas G. Dallessio, vice president and New Jersey director of the Regional Plan Association.
Dallessio spoke about the results of a study his organization conducted last year. Among the findings were:
- Over 500,000 people cross the state lines daily to work in New Jersey.
- The Morris County region has the longest commute in nation, with one-third of our commuters driving 40 minutes one way.
- Morris County commutes are getting longer even if the distance stays the same due to increased congestion and traffic.
- 20% of Morris County households pay more than the recommended 35 percent of their gross income on housing.
- To have "balanced housing" you need quality, choice and affordability.
- In Morris County those earning under $75K are affected by high housing costs.
Dallessio's final report on the study will be available in September, 2005.
Pat Bomus distributed a United Way of Morris County packet called "Affordable Housing IS Economic Development" to those attending the conference. To download a pdf of this packet click here. |
