Transit-Oriented Development: State of Oregon
This brochure features case studies of model mixed-use/TOD developments in Oregon. The summaries include an overview of designs, project highlights, awards, a slideshow and a list of the tools used. Portland's TOD program focuses on taking advantage of Federal Transit Administration policy that qualifies a development project as a transportation project if that development is physically or functionally connected to and enhances a transportation system. This TOD program orchestrates public-private partnerships to secure land, financing and development partners to implement TOD projects.
Oregon Metro is Portland's elected regional government. Metro has developed a Transit-Oriented Development Program that facilitates the planning and development of TODs along transit lines. It has found that three factors enhance transit ridership: a mix of moderate- to high-density land uses, a physical or functional connection to the transit system and design features that reinforce pedestrian relationships and scale (walkable environments). Metro has learned that planning alone does not lead to TODs — land economics is a major factor. Metro therefore facilitates public-private ventures to advance TOD projects. The TOD program provides financial incentives and uses public-private partnerships to enhance the economic feasibility of higher density mixed-use projects served by transit. The program uses site control and requests for proposals and qualifications to engage a private development partner or purchases a transit-oriented development easement on projects eligible for program funding.
A term typically applied to real estate development projects that combine residential and commercial or retail components.
