Training course on Developing Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs)

Training Course on Developing Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs) 

Introduction 

Developing Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs) is a strategic and increasingly essential discipline in modern urban planning and real estate. It focuses on creating compact, walkable, mixed-use communities centered around public transportation hubs, aiming to foster sustainable growth, enhance livability, and drive economic vitality. In an era demanding reduced carbon footprints, improved urban mobility, and vibrant community spaces, mastering TOD principles is paramount. For real estate developers, urban planners, public sector agencies, and investors, understanding how to effectively plan, finance, and implement TODs is crucial for unlocking significant value, creating resilient communities, and achieving sustainable development goals. This condensed course provides a focused, intensive overview of the critical strategies and best practices necessary to engage in successful TOD development. 

Training Course on Developing Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs) is meticulously designed to equip with the essential theoretical insights and practical tools necessary to embark on Developing Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs). We will delve into core principles of TOD, master key planning and design strategies for creating vibrant, transit-centric places, explore critical financing mechanisms including value capture, and address the inherent challenges of implementation, including social equity. By integrating best practices and analyzing relevant case studies, attendees will develop the strategic understanding to confidently contribute to the planning and execution of impactful TOD projects, fostering unparalleled sustainability, accessibility, and community value. 

Course Objectives 

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to: 

1. Analyze the fundamental principles and manifold benefits of Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs) for urban areas.
2. Master key strategies for planning and urban design to create walkable, dense, and vibrant TOD environments.
3. Comprehend the importance of seamless transit integration and high-quality public spaces within TOD designs.
4. Understand how land use, zoning, and diverse regulatory frameworks can either enable or hinder TOD implementation.
5. Explore and apply diverse financing models, including sophisticated public-private partnerships (PPPs) and value capture mechanisms, for TOD projects.
6. Address critical socio-economic impacts, specifically gentrification risks, and formulate strategies for equitable TOD outcomes.
7. Identify and effectively mitigate critical challenges, risks, and common pitfalls encountered during TOD conceptualization and implementation.
8. Formulate a comprehensive, high-level strategic framework for developing a TOD project from initiation to execution.
9. Develop expertise in designing for mixed-use and mixed-income density to maximize TOD potential.
10. Apply principles of sustainable development and green infrastructure within TOD planning.
11. Navigate the complexities of stakeholder engagement and community consensus-building for TOD initiatives.
12. Evaluate the economic and environmental performance metrics of successful TODs.
13. Prepare a concise preliminary TOD development proposal, incorporating best practices. 

Target Audience

This course is ideal for professionals seeking to understand and implement TOD principles: 

1. Real Estate Developers & Project Managers: Focusing on urban infill and transit-adjacent sites.
2. Urban Planners & City Officials: Involved in land use, zoning, and transportation planning.
3. Public Transit Agency Staff: Looking to maximize the impact of transit investments.
4. Real Estate Investors & Fund Managers: Evaluating opportunities in transit-accessible locations.
5. Architects & Urban Designers: Interested in designing for walkable, mixed-use environments.
6. Economic Development Professionals: Seeking to leverage transit for regional growth.
7. Community Development Practitioners: Advocating for equitable and inclusive urban revitalization.
8. Government Policy Makers: Shaping regulations and incentives for sustainable development.

Course Duration: 5 Days 

Course Modules 

Module 1: Foundations of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) 

• Defining TOD: purpose, characteristics, and its role in sustainable urban growth.
• The "8 Principles of TOD": Walk, Cycle, Connect, Transit, Mix, Densify, Compact, and Shift – in-depth analysis.
• Key benefits of TODs: environmental sustainability, economic development, improved quality of life, reduced traffic congestion.
• Understanding the nexus between transportation, land use, and real estate value. 

Module 2: Planning & Urban Design for TODs

• Creating walkable and cyclable environments: street design, pedestrian networks, bike infrastructure.
• Optimizing density: strategies for concentrating development around transit hubs.
• Designing for mixed-use and mixed-income: integrating residential, commercial, retail, and civic functions vertically and horizontally.
• Place-making principles for TODs: fostering unique identities and vibrant public spaces that attract and retain people.

Module 3: Transit Integration & Public Realm

• Seamless physical and operational integration with transit stations: direct connections, clear wayfinding, safety.
• Designing accessible and inviting transit environments that serve as community anchors.
• The role of high-quality public spaces (plazas, parks, civic areas) as central elements of TODs that enhance social interaction.
• Strategies for reducing car dependence: innovative parking management, shared mobility solutions.

Module 4: Land Use, Zoning & Regulatory Frameworks for TODs

• Revisiting and reforming zoning ordinances to enable higher densities and mixed uses around transit.
• Overcoming traditional regulatory barriers to TOD: minimum parking requirements, single-use zoning.
• Implementing TOD-specific plans, overlays, and incentive programs to encourage desired development patterns.
• The importance of coordinated land use and transportation planning across jurisdictions.

Module 5: Financing & Value Capture in TODs 

• Diverse funding sources for TODs: public grants, infrastructure bonds, private equity, conventional debt.
• Structuring effective Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for complex TOD projects, including risk allocation.
• Value Capture mechanisms: Understanding how public transit investment generates private land value uplift.
• Practical tools for value capture: Tax Increment Financing (TIF), special assessment districts, joint development agreements, and developer contributions.

Module 6: Socio-Economic Impacts & Equitable TOD

• Analyzing potential negative socio-economic impacts of TOD: gentrification, displacement of existing residents and businesses.
• Strategies for inclusive TOD: proactive affordable housing integration, anti-displacement measures, community benefits agreements.
• Ensuring equitable access to new economic opportunities, services, and amenities for all community members.
• Best practices for meaningful community engagement and addressing concerns in sensitive TOD contexts.

Module 7: TOD Implementation & Project Management 

• Strategic phased development approaches for large-scale, long-term TOD projects.
• Managing complex stakeholder coordination and inter-agency collaboration across public and private sectors.
• Key performance indicators (KPIs) for monitoring TOD success: ridership, absorption, affordability, environmental impact.
• Lessons learned from diverse international TOD implementation case studies, highlighting successes and challenges. 

Module 8: Challenges, Risk Management & Future Trends in TOD

• Common challenges in TOD development: land assembly, infrastructure capacity, political will, funding gaps, community resistance.
• Comprehensive strategies for risk identification, assessment, and mitigation throughout the TOD lifecycle.
• Emerging trends: smart TODs, integration of autonomous vehicles, climate-resilient design, and evolving mobility solutions.
• The future role of TODs in creating highly livable, sustainable, and resilient cities globally.

Training Methodology

• Interactive Workshops: Facilitated discussions, group exercises, and problem-solving activities.
• Case Studies: Real-world examples to illustrate successful community-based surveillance practices.
• Role-Playing and Simulations: Practice engaging communities in surveillance activities.
• Expert Presentations: Insights from experienced public health professionals and community leaders.
• Group Projects: Collaborative development of community surveillance plans.
• Action Planning: Development of personalized action plans for implementing community-based surveillance.
• Digital Tools and Resources: Utilization of online platforms for collaboration and learning.
• Peer-to-Peer Learning: Sharing experiences and insights on community engagement.
• Post-Training Support: Access to online forums, mentorship, and continued learning resources.

 

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount 

Send us an email: info@datastatresearch.org or call +254724527104 

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally recognized certificate. 

Tailor-Made Course 

We also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

• Participants must be conversant in English.
• Upon completion of training, participants will receive an Authorized Training Certificate.
• The course duration is flexible and can be modified to fit any number of days.
• Course fee includes facilitation, training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch, and a Certificate upon successful completion.
• One-year post-training support, consultation, and coaching provided after the course.
• Payment should be made at least a week before the training commencement to DATASTAT CONSULTANCY LTD account, as indicated in the invoice, to enable better preparation.