Title

Transit Oriented Development: A Part of the Green Solution

Abstract

California faces unprecedented challenges in achieving sustainable environmental protection and improving the quality of life for the state’s nearly 40 million citizens. All of these issues are tied, in one way or another, to the state’s growth patterns and the state, regional and local government policies on land use, transportation, environmental protection, energy, water, and others – that influence those patterns. California’s landmark land use and greenhouse gas state laws SB 375 and AB 32 have been designed to encourage smart growth and transit. Yet significant barriers to infill development exist making it difficult for good projects to get done. Offering incentives for smart developments on a local level is a critical first step to facilitate the transition to a greener California. Domus has been successful in developing and building attractive, walkable, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible infill communities in California, but not without serious challenges, expenses, and roadblocks. This presentation will outline several of Domus’innovative infill developments that promote transit, create affordable eco-friendly housing and exemplify how to break down barriers to help California reach land use goals set by SB 375. Participants will discover how to identify transit oriented development opportunities, understand the challenges and complexities that accompany infill development, and recognize the policy changes required to encourage smart growth on a larger scale.