
Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD)
What is traditional Transit-Oriented Development
Traditional transit-oriented development, or TOD, is a way to build cities that prioritizes tightly connected neighborhoods with a mix of residential and commercial uses. These vibrant and walkable neighborhoods offer residents more choices in how to get around, whether walking, biking or riding transit, and more destinations for retail, dining and entertainment. In this way, TOD supports our goals for environmental sustainability and economic development.
TOD is not a building or a project; it's a pattern of development that is:
- Compact and relatively dense.
- Within walking or biking distance of transit.
- Mixed-use, including housing, jobs, services, shopping and fun.
- Safe, walkable, interconnected and lively.
Get Involved
Follow the ETOD project progress and learn about opportunities to share your feedback and get involved.
An “E” for Equity!
While traditional TOD has brought significant benefits to many communities, subsequent growth around many of these developments has resulted in the displacement of nearby vulnerable communities. In these places, traditional TOD has become a victim of its own success, as new investment drives up rent and drives out long-time residents and businesses.
Typically, the affected communities include low-income families, people of color and households with limited or no access to private vehicles – the exact people who could benefit most from new transit. In response, CapMetro and the City of Austin are talking to communities along Project Connect's future transit corridors to develop policies and principles for equitable transit-oriented development (ETOD). These community discussions will help us make the most of the opportunity provided by the $300 million anti-displacement fund created by voters in 2020.
Moving to a model of ETOD is especially important with Project Connect, which offers a once in a generation opportunity for Austin to connect residents to housing and jobs. Successful ETOD does more than protect against displacement; it creates new economic opportunities for everyone. In a city facing a severe housing shortage, Project Connect will unlock the potential for developing and preserving housing for people at all income levels.
If planned without a community focus, however, this investment may displace the very people that benefit most from transit. If planned with community support and involvement, though, the new transit lines will enable Austinites to benefit from the economic growth and opportunities in the years to come.
Contact
For more information or to provide feedback, email us at: etod@capmetro.org to get the latest information on upcoming ETOD workshops, events and news.