Convenient and attractive transit plays a key role in a sustainable transit system. But the public’s call for improved transit often overlooks the important role of land use and design. LSL’s land use and transportation planners bridge that gap. At a broader scale, we work with top transit specialty firms to create long range transit plans. Those plans identify various types of transit service, such as more frequent bus service, park and ride lots or more rapid transit like bus rapid transit, streetcar and light rail. We explore how changes to the land use pattern and development design can positively influence ridership potential. At a corridor or district scale, LSL evaluates how transit ridership can be improved along particular corridors through transit-oriented design.
Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is a planning and regulatory approach intended to maximize the benefits of transit through the location, placement, design, and density of development. TOD often includes a mixture of uses clustered around a transit stop or transit corridor, at sufficient density to support transit and stimulate a walkable environment. TOD is an important part of vibrant communities with transit facilities where walkable, bikeable development nodes can add to community sustainability. TOD can be applied in a particular district or along key transit corridors through overlay zoning.
Ways to Achieve Successful TODs:
- Restrict auto-related design and uses
- Compact development
- Orient buildings to sidewalk
- A complete pedestrian network around transit stops or stations
- Limit or price parking to make driving less attractive
- Employer incentives to promote transit use
- Provide incentives for developments located within core areas (1/4 - 1/2 mile from stations or stops)
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CATA | Michigan/Grand River Avenue Transportation Improvement Study
Lansing, MI
The Rapid | Transit Master Plan
Grand Rapids, MI
TOD and Park and Ride Analysis
Ann Arbor, MI |
