On Monday, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced it would be making $13.4 million in grant funds available for transit-oriented developments
Administered by the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Planning program, the funds will support planning for areas near transit hubs to create sustainable, livable and equitable communities. The FTA said the funding would be used to provide more opportunities around transit, and that priority for the grants would be given to mixed-use development near transit stations that promote affordable housing.
“Transit-oriented development helps shape communities where you can conveniently access jobs, groceries, medical care, good schools, affordable housing, and more,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “We are all better off when there is easy access to affordable, accessible, and convenient ways to get around, which is why DOT is proud to announce this funding to support transit-oriented development.”
Since 2015, FTA’s TOD program has awarded more than $104 million to communities including fund for creative and innovative projects like a project in Phoenix and Tempe, Ariz., where city officials are working to transform the areas around Valley Metro streetcar and light rail routes to expand housing opportunities and build sustainable, equitable neighborhoods.
“Transit-oriented development reduces reliance on single-occupancy vehicles, improves mobility, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. It helps promote transit ridership by creating more opportunities for people to access rail stations, transit centers and bus stops,” FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez said. “Through this program, we will support more investments in TOD and help improve communities and people’s lives.”