Training Course on Developing Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs)

Course Title: Training Course on Developing Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs)

Executive Summary

This two-week intensive course equips professionals with the knowledge and tools to plan, design, and implement successful Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs). Participants will explore the principles of TOD, focusing on integrated land use, transportation planning, and community engagement. Through case studies, practical exercises, and expert lectures, attendees will learn to address challenges such as financing, zoning regulations, and stakeholder coordination. The course covers best practices in TOD development, emphasizing sustainability, equity, and economic viability. Participants will gain insights into creating vibrant, walkable, and transit-accessible communities that enhance quality of life and reduce reliance on private vehicles. This training fosters a holistic understanding of TOD, empowering professionals to drive transformative urban development.

Introduction

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is a powerful strategy for creating sustainable, equitable, and economically vibrant communities. By integrating land use and transportation planning, TODs encourage compact, walkable neighborhoods centered around high-quality public transit. This approach reduces reliance on private vehicles, promotes economic development, and enhances quality of life. This two-week training course provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of TOD principles, practices, and implementation strategies. The course will cover key topics such as land use planning, transportation planning, community engagement, financing, and policy considerations. Participants will learn from real-world case studies and engage in practical exercises to develop the skills needed to create successful TODs in their own communities. This training is designed for professionals working in planning, transportation, real estate, and related fields who are interested in advancing TOD in their regions.

Course Outcomes

• Understand the core principles and benefits of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD).
• Develop integrated land use and transportation plans for TOD projects.
• Apply best practices in TOD design, financing, and implementation.
• Address challenges related to zoning, regulations, and stakeholder coordination.
• Promote sustainability, equity, and economic viability in TOD projects.
• Engage communities effectively in the TOD planning process.
• Create vibrant, walkable, and transit-accessible neighborhoods.

Training Methodologies

• Interactive lectures and presentations by industry experts.
• Case study analysis of successful TOD projects worldwide.
• Group discussions and collaborative problem-solving exercises.
• Site visits to existing TODs to observe real-world examples.
• Simulation exercises to practice TOD planning and design.
• Workshops on financing, zoning, and community engagement strategies.
• Individual and group projects to apply learned concepts to specific scenarios.

Benefits to Participants

• Comprehensive understanding of TOD principles and best practices.
• Enhanced skills in integrated land use and transportation planning.
• Ability to address challenges related to TOD development and implementation.
• Increased knowledge of financing, zoning, and policy considerations for TODs.
• Improved community engagement and stakeholder coordination skills.
• Network with other professionals in the field of TOD.
• Certification of completion to demonstrate expertise in TOD.

Benefits to Sending Organization

• Improved capacity to plan and implement successful TOD projects.
• Enhanced ability to attract investment and development in transit corridors.
• Greater efficiency in land use and transportation planning processes.
• Increased competitiveness in attracting and retaining talent.
• Stronger relationships with community stakeholders.
• Enhanced reputation as a leader in sustainable development.
• Contribution to regional economic growth and quality of life.

Target Participants

• City and regional planners
• Transportation engineers
• Real estate developers
• Urban designers
• Transit agency staff
• Community development professionals
• Government officials involved in land use and transportation planning

Week 1: Foundations of Transit-Oriented Development

Module 1: Introduction to TOD

1. Defining Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)
2. History and evolution of TOD
3. Principles of TOD: Density, Diversity, Design, Distance
4. Benefits of TOD: Economic, environmental, social
5. Challenges of TOD implementation
6. Case studies of successful TODs globally
7. The role of TOD in sustainable urban development

Module 2: Land Use Planning for TOD

1. Zoning regulations and their impact on TOD
2. Mixed-use development strategies
3. Density bonuses and incentives for TOD
4. Parking requirements and alternatives
5. Creating walkable and bikeable environments
6. Integrating green spaces and public amenities
7. Land use planning for affordable housing in TODs

Module 3: Transportation Planning for TOD

1. Transit system planning and design
2. Bus rapid transit (BRT) and light rail transit (LRT) systems
3. Pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure
4. Traffic calming and street design
5. Integrating transit with other modes of transportation
6. Transit-supportive land use policies
7. Measuring transit ridership and performance

Module 4: Financing TOD Projects

1. Public funding sources for TOD
2. Private investment in TOD
3. Tax increment financing (TIF)
4. Value capture mechanisms
5. Public-private partnerships (PPPs)
6. Creative financing strategies for TOD
7. Developing a financial feasibility study for TOD

Module 5: Community Engagement in TOD

1. Identifying stakeholders and their interests
2. Developing a community engagement plan
3. Using public meetings, surveys, and workshops
4. Addressing community concerns and opposition
5. Building consensus and support for TOD
6. Ensuring equitable outcomes for all residents
7. Measuring the effectiveness of community engagement

Week 2: Implementing and Managing Transit-Oriented Developments

Module 6: Zoning and Regulatory Frameworks for TOD

1. Developing TOD-specific zoning codes
2. Overlay districts and special purpose districts
3. Streamlining the permitting process
4. Addressing regulatory barriers to TOD
5. Implementing form-based codes
6. Integrating TOD into comprehensive plans
7. Case studies of successful TOD zoning regulations

Module 7: Designing TOD for Sustainability

1. Green building practices and LEED certification
2. Energy efficiency and renewable energy sources
3. Water conservation and stormwater management
4. Waste reduction and recycling
5. Creating healthy and livable communities
6. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
7. Measuring the environmental impact of TOD

Module 8: TOD and Affordable Housing

1. Inclusionary zoning policies
2. Density bonuses for affordable housing
3. Financing strategies for affordable housing in TODs
4. Preserving existing affordable housing
5. Creating mixed-income communities
6. Addressing displacement concerns
7. Case studies of successful affordable housing in TODs

Module 9: Managing and Maintaining TODs

1. Property management strategies
2. Community associations and governance
3. Public space maintenance and programming
4. Security and crime prevention
5. Transportation demand management (TDM)
6. Marketing and promotion of TODs
7. Measuring the long-term success of TODs

Module 10: Advanced Topics in TOD

1. TOD and economic development
2. TOD and public health
3. TOD and climate change resilience
4. TOD and social equity
5. Emerging trends in TOD
6. The future of TOD
7. Developing a personal action plan for advancing TOD

Action Plan for Implementation

1. Identify a specific TOD project or opportunity in your community.
2. Conduct a preliminary assessment of the site and surrounding area.
3. Develop a vision and goals for the TOD project.
4. Engage stakeholders and build partnerships.
5. Develop a conceptual plan and financial model.
6. Seek funding and approvals.
7. Implement and manage the TOD project.