Introduction to T.O.D.s

Transit Oriented Developments are high density areas development where all residences are within a ten minute walking distance of a transit stop.  The type of development constructed around these stops is usually mixed use and very compact.  It stems from the New Urbanist idea and is generally built pedestrian friendly.  The transit stops are usually public transportation and can be funded by many of the smart growth legislation available to cities.  These types of development are becoming more popular because non-traditional households are on the rise.  That is single people and empty-nesters, research has found that these types of people are receptive to compact development within close walking distance of a transit stop.

Some of the benefits of these transit oriented developments are increased ridership, decreased urban sprawl, and relief of congestion on nearby roads.  This new type of development also gives transit companies the opportunity to expand the current systems in place.  For residents it increases accessibility to jobs, land values increase with transit stops nearby, and this type of development usually sparks a revitalization of a community.

In New Jersey the state has planning in place for these already and incentives for cities to build these types of areas.  The state’s current plan promotes preservation of existing open space while developing areas close to centers they have designated.  The state has created policies concerning this type of development, assistance when building these, and recognition for doing so.