Note: LISC's online content is accessible in any browser. However, if you are reading this, your browser may not display this site's design details. We suggest upgrading to a standards compliant browser to fully experience the design of this site.

Skip directly to: Search Box, Section Navigation, Content.
Normal | Print PRINTER FORMATTED VERSION
PROGRAMS
POLICY

Transportation

Light Rail
© Metro
With light rail on schedule to open in December 2008, metropolitan Phoenix has a new opportunity to bring affordable and sustainable living to our urban cores. Transit-oriented development (TOD) can create accessible environments around transit stations -new high-density "neighborhoods" that offer a blend of housing, retail, commercial and transportation opportunities, all within walking distance.

Turning the "anticipated" into reality, however, takes vision and planning on a regional scale. Public/private partnerships between the Urban Land Institute, ASU, LISC, developers, and local governments are working to optimize TOD opportunities along the light rail. Smart Growth Implementation Assistance from the US Environmental Protection Agency is providing technical assistance to foster economic growth while protecting environmental resources.

"Light rail will generate billions of dollars in new development", said Sandy Zwick, principal planner for Light Rail Planning & Development at the City of Phoenix. "It is critical that cities create new development standards to ensure that we create walkable, pedestrian-oriented and sustainable communities."

Access to work and retail opportunities are crucial ingredients for the success, sustainability and affordability of urban neighborhoods. TOD has the potential of providing affordable housing plus efficient transportation. It can create a high level of mobility for everyone, old and young, regardless of income. We need to take advantage of this unique opportunity now.

LISC Phoenix is co-sponsoring a transportation workshop in Dec 2008.