Model TOD Zoning Ordinance (PDF, 3.7 MB) - Reconnecting America

June 29, 2001 ■Model Transit-Oriented District Overlay Zoning OrdinanceFigure 2.1: Pedestrian AccessibilityDiagrams. These diagrams illustratewalking distance in four neighborhoods inSeattle, WA. The circle is a 1/4 mile radiusand the lines radiating from the centershow the walking distance to the center.The top two panels are diagrams of ahighly connected neighborhood, while thebottom two panels illustrate distances in amore disconnected area. (Source: VernezMoudon p. 41)The aforementioned issues that will inevitably arise when defining the TOD district willnecessitate that each jurisdiction perform an assessment of the neighborhood surrounding theirrespective station areas. Unlike the hypothetical circumference of a walking radius, the districtmay contain kinks and indentations.The following table illustrates the walking distance boundaries as defined within ordinances andguidelines of several jurisdictions with adopted TOD regulations.Table 2.1: Walking DistancesSourceSeattle, WAHillsboro, ORPortland, ORWashington County, ORSan Diego, CADistance of District Boundary1/4 mile radius from LRT station1300’ radius from LRT station1/4 mile radius from LRT station1/2 mile radius from LRT stations1/4 mile radius from primary bus routes2000’ radius from transit stop2.2 GradientA gradient creates flexibility for a variety of land use and urban design components. Land uses,densities, building heights, setbacks, and other elements can be regulated such that they createhigher levels of activity closer to the station and lower levels at the perimeter of the TOD to meetexisting low-density uses. Use gradients can be configured to encourage a greater mix of uses atPage 4 ■Chapter V ■ Valley Connections