Unpopular idea but cycling as the main vehicle to commute is backwards. Interesting how everyone here seems to think the same thing. Not everyone wants to or can bike. Making cars and bicycles rivalries can be an anti-progress idea actually.
At least they have tried something. In some other areas, like Sydney or Melbourne (Australia), everyone who matters (landlords + politicians) owns homes. So nobody is doing anything about it.
Economic benefits are probably the biggest reason for being stuck in those unlivable cities. However the downside might outweigh the upside: higher cost, long commute and lots of worries.