Transit-oriented development (TOD), is an exciting trend in urban planning that centers on creating vibrant people places centered on high quality rail systems. According to studies, living close to transit decreases driving and energy consumption by an impressive 85-75%!
TODs (Transit-oriented developments) are carefully planned high density developments located close to frequent transit that help communities increase sustainable transit ridership while revitalizing neighborhoods and strengthening economic competitiveness.
Housing
Housing is an integral component of transit-oriented development (TOD). TOD communities offer an array of housing options suitable for people of all income levels, including affordable homes and apartments. Most TOD neighborhoods are located within 1/4 to 1/2 miles from transit stops for easy access by those without cars.
TODs typically involve rail transportation, but can also take shape through high-capacity bus networks such as bus rapid transit (BRT). Furthermore, TOD can refer to communities designed and built specifically to promote walking.
TOD (Transit Oriented Development) can create more productive and livable urban areas by clustering jobs, services and housing around public transport stations. TOD also reduces private car use while making transit more attractive and efficient; according to a World Bank report. A neighborhood’s TOD potential should be determined using three values such as transit connectivity, place quality and market potential.
Employment
TOD communities make it easier for residents to live and work without needing a car, reducing energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and helping families save on housing and transportation costs.
TOD concepts can be applied to cities with extensive public transport networks as well as smaller communities with less extensive transit options, either to encourage compact city growth and reduce dependence on cars; or improve air quality and provide better access to jobs and services.
One way of encouraging TOD is through zoning areas for higher density near transit stations and streamlining permit processes with special funding or tax arrangements, or offering financial support through special tax arrangements. TOD also allows for inclusion of affordable housing into new developments which helps promote sustainable inclusive growth. TOD Institute research shows that properties near high frequency transit see their values rise more quickly due to new development than those further away.
Retail
Retailers have increasingly adopted Transit-Oriented Development, or TOD, an evolving trend of creating vibrant people places around high quality train systems. A typical TOD community typically lies within five minutes walk of an appropriate station stop and features shops, offices, cultural facilities, housing and other uses that attract commuters during weekday commutes and residents during weekends/nighttime hours, decreasing reliance on automobiles.
TOD decreases individual vehicle ownership, fuel use and traffic congestion while simultaneously increasing non-automobile modes of travel (walking, cycling and public transport). TOD also tends to strengthen community cohesion and social interaction; households living in TOD drive 44% less than in auto-dependent neighborhoods, saving an average of 512 gallons and $1,400 annually in gas costs (APTA (2009)). There are various factors that determine TOD station area mode share such as type and quality of transit service available, land use patterns in local neighborhoods as well as parking management strategies (APTA 2009).
Public Spaces
TOD communities are designed around high quality train systems that offer residents an alternative lifestyle without needing cars. Dense, walkable TODs are common throughout Tokyo and other Japanese cities, leading to new towns that are compact, pedestrian-oriented and focused around transit stations.
TODs are often constructed to promote sustainable transit ridership, revitalize communities, increase economic competitiveness and enhance regional quality of life. TOD projects tend to focus on light rail and rapid transit lines but may also include frequent bus routes with high capacity carrying capacity.
As is true with real estate investments, location is of utmost importance for TOD success. When amenities are within walking distance, residents have less need for cars. According to a World Bank study, three values (3Vs) surrounding transit stations — transit connectivity, quality of urban environment and market potential– can help determine what types of developments make sense in each neighborhood.