Well, there are solutions but then you get into even uglier politics.
Allow higher density housing to be built without opposition (for example up zoning 1 level should be automatically approved: single family home can be torn down to build a duplex, etc). Then reduce and remove parking requirements.
Once that's done density will just go up on its own and... cars don't scale. Traffic will absolutely murder everyone and they'll start demanding public transit.
Careful what you wish for. You have to wish the whole wish otherwise the monkey's paw will get you. Wishing for higher density without also pushing for better zoning policies overall will just make the traffic another level of pain, which is something seen in a number of cities. Sure, we'll then just build massive apartment complexes, one right next to the other. Where's the grocery store though? Where do these people work? Oops.
I see so many new residential projects with small lots or apartments. That's great! But still the zoning forces just housing, so its just homes on homes on homes for miles.
Allow higher density housing to be built without opposition (for example up zoning 1 level should be automatically approved: single family home can be torn down to build a duplex, etc). Then reduce and remove parking requirements.
Once that's done density will just go up on its own and... cars don't scale. Traffic will absolutely murder everyone and they'll start demanding public transit.
However this whole path is killed via NIMBY.