Expanding the Concept of Transit-Oriented Development: Lessons from Abroad

In an op-ed in Next City, Shonda Wang outlines the lessons that U.S. planners can draw from cities like Tokyo and Toronto when it comes to transit-oriented development (TOD).

By limiting solutions to what we traditionally understand as TOD, we restrict our ability to foster complete communities. Here in North America, leveraging the air rights of future and existing transit stations can unlock opportunities to deliver more housing and community infrastructure, offset development costs and attract key partners.

Wang describes three key factors that make Tokyo’s TOD successful: a single agency that manages developments; a streamlined approach to permitting; and an understanding of the time-to-value factor, meaning that integrated development should be considered in early infrastructure and urban design plans.

Wang also highlights the importance of the transit experience. “We need to think about transit stations not as single-use entities, but as opportunities to create bustling places that make commuters feel good as they walk in, out of and through them.” 

Wang adds, “Just think of the massive opportunities if we act beyond the bounds of our disciplines to advance our transportation goals, accelerate the development of low-carbon buildings and build community resilience.”