In a season when the gulf between the haves and have-nots is more noticed than usual, the News Tribune has a report showing rising inequality in one of Pierce County's most desirable areas. It highlights the role of sprawl and ineffective transit.
The paper found the percentage of Gig Harbor-area households earning less than $25,000 remained flat at 10 to 14 percent during the last 15 years, while the percentage earning more than $100,000 has risen to 28 percent from 16 percent. Meanwhile the middle has shrunk to 60 percent, a trend it says is similar across the county and state.
The have-nots stay in Gig Harbor area for many reasons, including for quality schools. The story notes that housing is expensive and a toll on the new Narrows bridge will hit poor residents especially hard. It also notes that there are few social services in the area and cars are necessary to get to jobs or appointments across the water in Tacoma.