Transit-Oriented Development: “A Lifeline for Communities”

Transit agencies are celebrating the groundbreaking of new transit-oriented development (TOD). In San Jose, CA, and Dallas, TX, TOD is bringing opportunity to communities in need and supporting economic growth.

Co-locating Transit and Affordable Housing

On Jan. 23, the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) celebrated the opening of affordable apartments situated next to VTA Light Rail and the Tamien Caltrain station. The 135 apartment units, now full, are intended for families and individuals earning less than 60 percent of the area median income. Half of the units are allocated for rapid rehousing, serving those most in need of safe housing.

VTA’s General Manager/CEO Carolyn Gonot said the housing is a “lifeline for so many in our community.” The agency has more of these projects in its pipeline.

VTA’s Transit-Oriented Development Program works with municipal and private partners to encourage the development of housing, retail, and employment centers that are easily accessible via walking, biking, or public transportation.

Impact on Economic Growth

On Jan. 22, Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) celebrated the groundbreaking of a 394-unit apartment community at its SMU/Mockingbird Station. The apartments along with an underground garage are the first phase of redevelopment of 16 acres of DART-owned land adjacent to the light rail station.

DART CEO and President Nadine Lee said, “Developments like these promote the economic and social activity that underpins vibrant and prosperous communities, all centered on a critical regional mobility hub.”

Data from the University of North Texas showed that over a 25-year period TOD has had an $18.1 billion direct economic impact on North Texas, including a $1 billion impact during 2022-2024. Nationally, APTA research shows that every dollar invested in public transportation generates five dollars in economic returns.