Transit Oriented Planning
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)?
A TOD is a compact, mixed-use community – containing housing, offices, and services including convenience retail, public open space, and institutions such as schools - -- all centered on a transit station. Preference is given to pedestrian circulation to reduce the reliance on the automobile, and facilitate the use of transit. TOD’s offer an alternative to the low-density, auto-oriented suburban development pattern, widening the choices for those who desire a more urban living and working environment. Benefits often cited are reduction in traffic congestion and related air pollution, and efficient use of municipal services. For more information, see the Transit Cooperative Research Program of the Federal Transit Administration.
What are the transit plans for Raleigh?
The Triangle Transit Authority is beginning construction of a regional rail system that will eventually be 35 miles long and will have 16 stations, running on existing railroad rights-of-way to connect Durham, RTP, Cary, and Raleigh. An initial segment to run from Durham to the Government Center in downtown Raleigh will open in late 2007. In addition, Capital Area Transit feeder bus shuttle routes are planned to connect adjoining neighborhoods with the five regional rail stations. For more detailed information, see the recommendations included in the City of Raleigh Five-Year Transit Plan, Year 5.
Future Transit Planning
What is Raleigh doing about TOD's?
Raleigh has embarked on a strategy for gradually increasing the density of development around the stations over time, and enhancing the mix of land uses. On April 6, 2004 the City Council adopted Comprehensive Plan amendments and a new zoning overlay district, both of which form a basis for upcoming Small Area Plans for each of the station areas. Plans will be completed for areas within approximately ½ mile around each station (except North Carolina State University, Northeast Regional Center, and Durant Road). When each Small Area Plan is adopted by City Council, a decision will be made as to whether to apply the new overlay zoning district. The intent is to guide growth over time toward the type of Transit Oriented Development describe above.
Where will the stations be located?
Within the Raleigh area there are three clusters of stations proposed:
In addition, two other station sites are possible near Sumner Boulevard south of I-540 (Northeast Regional Center), and at Durant Road.
What is the development potential around each station area?
The long-term development potential around each set of stations is affected by several variables, including the existing development pattern and the availability of vacant land. A detailed narrative of Station Area Opportunities looks at all the factors that will effect future transit-oriented development at each station site pinpoints possible redevelopment opportunities.
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