Transit-Oriented Development

What is TOD?

Transit-oriented development (TOD) is a pattern of development characterized by a mix of uses surrounding a transit station where streets have a high level of connectivity, blocks are small, and buildings and uses cater to the pedestrian.

Benefits of Transit-Oriented Development

• TOD can help revitalize declining neighborhoods and urban centers
• Improved accessibility to jobs
• Mixed-use TOD can generate sales tax revenues
• TOD can provide affordable housing near a readily available source of transportation, creating a high-level of mobility for households on limited incomes
• Opportunities for public/private partnerships
• Has the possibility to increase values of nearby properties
• Improved foot traffic for retailers
• Decrease in transportation costs for residents and workers
• Decreased employee travel costs
• Access to a more diverse workforce
• Escalating gasoline and fuel costs encourages transit use

Characteristics

• Walkable, tree-lined streets (shade)
• Buildings built up to the street
• Buildings with frequent windows and doors
• Diverse, complementary uses that encourage people to stroll, shop, meet, greet and eat
• A variety of compact housing in an assortment of styles
• Strategic parking strategies (Reduced parking, shared parking, more land for development)