Transit-oriented development requires more than transit and development

NRDC Switchboard
Kaid Benfield // January 25, 2010

Mr. Benfield makes the argument that that we have really defined only transit-served development locations. The design process of orienting the development to transit requires more. For instance, there must be adequate density and a walkable environment; the densest, most walkable portions of the development should be placed closest to the transit stop; commercial and mixed-use buildings should also be close to the stop, with their primary entrances highly accessible to transit passengers, to facilitate multi-purpose trips; buildings and public spaces should be designed to make the area around the transit station or stop feel inviting, comfortable, and secure; design should make it easy for transit and bicycle transfers and vehicle drop-offs; single-family residences may be placed a bit farther away; and so forth

MORE