TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT - Why TODs Work

In a recent survey, homebuyers were given a choice between large-lot neighborhoods, where families depend entirely on automobiles to support their lives, and a more compact neighborhood with schools, shops, and restaurants nearby. Six in ten prospective homebuyers chose the compact, transit-oriented neighborhood. This is a fairly dramatic change from just 10 years ago and a sign that Americans are ready to give up their bedroom communities in favor of walkable, convenient communities.

Between years 2000 and 2030, the U.S. population will grow by more than 94 million more people. And consequently, analysts project that over the next twenty years this rapid growth will fuel a construction boom unlike anything developers and housing economists have seen. 

This also means that, as a nation, we will need to increase our housing stock by up to 50%, and will need to be creative and conscientious in how we do so, in order to make the most of limited space and limited resources. EBL&S feels we are in the midst of an opportunity to drastically re-think the way we design and develop buildings and neighborhoods.

Instead, EBL&S continues to use this demographic opportunity to create a new model based on based on the best existing urban neighborhoods. When we look at model areas, we find they share some basic characteristics:  In general,

•          They are walkable and combine homes, work, entertainment and schools in the same area 

•          They provide a diverse mix of housing options

•          They are located close to public transit.

Density, and specifically transit-oriented development, done well, can help balance city budgets, transform declining neighborhoods into lively ones, reduce traffic congestion, provide housing options within reach of municipal employees and preserve space for parks and outdoor recreation.