Finding a solution begins with understanding the problem

We start by asking questions and crunching data. We test ideas. We take a unique approach to research and analysis, which informs the tools, reports, and initiatives we develop to help build better communities.

Research Impact

Our research, reports, and web-based tools serve as catalysts for smart and sustainable urban planning and policy. Some recent examples:

  • Transportation officials, metropolitan planning organizations, and governments in communities coast to coast use our Housing and Transportation (H+T®) Affordability Index to advance sustainability and affordability goals.
  • Analysis we performed in California helped make the case that building affordable housing near transit can significantly reduce GHG from auto emissions. The State of California factored this information into their decision to devote billions of dollars in new cap-and-trade revenue to fund projects intended to further curb climate impacts.
  • Our research on urban flooding informed legislation in Illinois and in Congress that will help cities find green and cost-effective approaches to stormwater management.
  • The GreenTrip Parking Database we developed for TransForm found $140 million in unused parking spaces in the San Francisco Bay Area. This will help regional planners and policy makers make smarter, data-driven decisions about how much parking they really need.