Transit Oriented Development (TOD) is one of major section most of the developers are eyeing on, which will be profitable for them as well as public. Looking for the best locations for development near transit? The answer is Transit Oriented Development. In US there are 4,000 locations that meet this definition. TOD is similar to waterfront property, and offers great benefits to the public. Some of the things you should know about TOD are:

Number of Commercial and Residential Districts around a station

TOD refers to the residential and commercial districts located around a any transit station or corridor, which has high quality services like pedestrian walk-ability and parking facilities. Some other design features, which promote the transit use, also allow maximum overall accessibility.

Measurement Length of TOD from the station

Transit Oriented Development is mostly measured by a 5-10 minute walk from the station to the boundary edge. This is equal to one-quarter to one-half mile distance.

Clustering Land use

TOD refers to shifting more car trips to mass transit and thus increasing the land use through clustering business, services and housing. In the meantime, non-motorized transportation improvements are set in the place and thus increase accessibility and transportation options.
    
TOD: A scarce and valuable resource

The property value near TOD increases greater than the average by 5-15%. The reasons behind this include cost and time savings of auto or taxi use, parking and maintenance.

Higher density, mixed use zoning

Zoning changes plays a crucial and fundamental role in encouraging TOD in all station areas. Some components of zoning include provisions for mixed uses, density bonuses, reduced setbacks, parking restrictions and other pedestrian amenities.
   
TOD Revitalizes Community Centers and neighborhoods

As TOD promotes efficient usage of existing land, infrastructure and services, it thus supports the revitalization of community centers and neighborhoods. This creates a sense of a unique place.

Increase Opportunities for Jobs and Business

More than creating businesses and jobs within TOD, transit is always taken as a smart investment that provide jobs to lower income people, suburban commuters, the elderly and the disabled. As increasing number of people look for houses and employment near transit stations, TOD thus enhances the role of transit for lower income people.
 
Enhanced Transportation Choices

Major objective of TOD is to provide all sort of living, shopping, entertainment and employment comfort within walking distance of transit stations. These make people use transit in place of cars. Various pedestrian amenities like bicycle facilities and other alternate travel options are offered to regular transit users.