Program on the Environment

Well designed transit oriented development (TOD) in urban centers as public transportation networks grow is vital to the growth of cities, especially Seattle as the Link Light Rail system progresses. However, poor planning, lack of funding, and difficult building regulations have hindered the development of new TOD centers. As Seattle grows its network into less dense urban areas, TOD at large scales is key to fully utilize the growing network. Through analyzing a future light rail project in Georgetown, Seattle the feasibility of TOD became clear. It is an ideal area for expansion, transit-oriented development potential, and the pressing need for more transportation options, Georgetown would benefit significantly from this project. The excess vacant land and unused space leaves ample room for development. The potential impacts would be far-reaching, connecting multiple historic Seattle neighborhoods, reducing travel times to Sea-Tac and Tacoma, and creating opportunities for growth in a crowded city. The results of this highlighted the clear need to create significant changes in areas where future light rail stations will be developed to make the best use of the land and space. As Link Light Rail grows in the region the need to have TOD that serves the residents and builds community is vital to the success of the network.