Connecting the TODs: Miami's transit-oriented developments, urban context & the public transit user experience

Abstract

Public transit ridership numbers have been on a steady decline in the United States, but in Miami in particular, the numbers have rarely met expectations. During the past two decades, especially since the implementation of the nation’s first form-based code—Miami21, Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs) have emerged throughout Miami as one response to encourage a reduction in car use and traffic congestion while promoting an increase in public transit use and walkability. More than ever before projects that provide mixed mobility options are being conceived by the private development community and public sector alike. The extent to which these TODs have a significant impact on public transit ridership relies heavily on inter-dependent factors within the TOD’s control, and outside of it as well. Factors such as site location, the affordability of the housing units built, the place of employment of those living in the neighborhood, the age of the target market, the hot weather, a socio-cultural stigma around public transit—and the list goes on.

Through a series of case studies, this investigation aims to demonstrate the correlation between Miami’s existing TODs, the urban context—focusing on neighborhood walkability, demographics, and streetscape design—and the resulting public transit user experience. TODs proposed in neighborhoods where residents’ socio-economic and environmental needs prioritize urban mobility, likely yield a higher number of public transit riders. Moreover, a pleasant streetscape network incentivizes more daily trips making TOD a success—success quantified as a significant transit ridership increase. This type of multi-layered approach can inform future project leaders and researchers on the depth of analysis necessary for implementing successful TODs—TODs that contribute to bringing Miami out of the worst transit rankings, sooner rather than later.