BUILDING COMMUNITIES WITH TRANSIT

Initially, public transit developed in response to the need for better urban transportation as the largest urban areas began to grow beyond the limits of pedestrian environment. With the rise of importance of the family car, public transit lost much of its power to guide urban growth. While transit and other considerations remained relevant, road development became increasingly significant as a development incentive. Transit became but a single factor among many in urban area development. The article points out that to assure an effective role in urban development, transit requires a strong integration of urban planning, development, and transit investments. Some key actions are suggested, while recognizing that the presence of good transit service is one of the principal considerations that can favorably affect the development of cities, suburbs, metropolitan areas, and economic and residential growth.