1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong opposition to housing developments that eliminate or significantly reduce parking requirements. Planning housing without adequate parking is unrealistic for a community like Whatcom County. Our county is geographically large, and public transportation simply does not provide the routes, frequency, or reliability that many residents need. Until there is a transit system that truly meets people’s daily transportation needs, expecting residents to forgo personal vehicles is impractical and unfair. As a registered nurse with more than 26 years of experience, I have seen firsthand how transportation barriers affect health. Reliable access to a vehicle is often the difference between making or missing medical appointments, obtaining medications, caring for family members, and maintaining employment. Requiring residents to park far from their homes or compete for limited street parking creates unnecessary obstacles, particularly for seniors, people with disabilities, families with young children, and those living with chronic illnesses. Housing affordability and responsible growth are important goals, but they should not come at the expense of accessibility and common sense. Eliminating parking does not eliminate the need for cars—it simply shifts the burden onto neighborhoods, businesses, and residents. If the City wishes to reduce dependence on personal vehicles, then public transportation must first become a realistic alternative through expanded routes, increased frequency, and dependable service. Until that happens, adequate parking should remain an essential part of every housing development. I urge you and the City Council to consider the real-world consequences of these policies and prioritize practical solutions that support housing, mobility, healthcare access, and quality of life for all Whatcom County residents.