Evaluating the potential locations for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): a case study of Mecklenburg County, NC

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Dylan Coolbaugh (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Selima Sultana

Abstract: The work described is aimed at developing a unique and modifiable model for analyzing transit system improvements, with specific emphasis on the concept of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). In particular, the use of multiple variables that have been developed over the years as a result of a number of transit analyses, in a novel manner is described. The area of study was the light rail transit system (LRT) known as Lynx in Mecklenburg County, NC and over a period of development between 2001 and 2012 which included the actual construction phase from 2005 to 2007. An index model was developed to combine and magnify the potential impacts of each of the identified variables as they related to one another and the surrounding urban environment. These variables included land value, housing unit density, and others that are often been associated with TOD. The results of this combined and comprehensive analysis served to identify areas that are likely associated with the transit system, primarily proximity to the LRT system, i.e., areas where changes in the TOD-related variables were consistent with a positive relation to recognized TOD principles. Some areas within the service area showed especially high positive attributes of TOD, for example, Uptown Charlotte, a major hub of a current phase of LRT development, as well areas of other future enhancements. An extension of the work described should include the evaluation of additional variables as applicable data sets are made available, including, but not limited to, employment change, property vacancy statistics, and crime.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Language: English
Date: 2016
Keywords
Charlotte, Geographic information systems, Index model, Light rail transit, Mecklenburg County, Transit oriented development
Subjects
Transit-oriented development $z North Carolina $z Mecklenburg County
Street-railroads $z North Carolina $z Mecklenburg County

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