Researchers Refute Higher Density=Better Transit Principle

Prevailing wisdom is that transit mode and frequency of service is dependent on residential density, which leaves low density, outer suburbs in a lurch, instilling an auto-dependent lifestyle. Not so, says Australian researcher and author Paul Mees.

1 minute read

January 5, 2011, 2:00 PM PST

By Irvin Dawid

"Residents in the outer suburbs should not have to wait for higher housing densities before getting better public transport, according to research that could defuse one of the most bitter controversies in urban planning."

Writing in the journal Australian Planner, Dr. John Stone, of the University of Melbourne, and Dr. Paul Mees, of Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University present an alternative to what many view as Smart Growth 101: The key to better transit is to increase density and mixed uses.

"The keys to increasing public transport use in outer suburbs are more frequent buses, running at least every 10-15 minutes, and not just in peak hour; better co-ordination with rail services; more convenient transfers; and fares that allow free transfers between modes."

''Alternatives to the car will need to be effective at existing urban residential densities''.

Thanks to Allen Tacy

FULL STORY: Transport study derails thinking on outer suburbs

Wednesday, January 5, 2011 in The Age: Victoria

Social / Demographics Transportation Urban Development Australia Public Transit Residential Density Outer Suburbs Richard Mees View More

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.