Institute of Urban and Regional Development

Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs)– i.e., compact, mixed-use, walking friendly neighborhoods oriented to rail or bus hubs–have gained popularity in the U.S. A commonly held view is TODs appeal to non-traditional households, like childless couples, Millennials, and empty-nesters. Such groups value good transit connections to downtown and, influenced by TV shows like Seinfeld and Friends, place a premium on living in walkable communities with outdoor cafes and shops that cater to the professional class. The Center for TOD (CTOD) estimates that 79 percent of U.S. households living in TODs by 2025 will be childless. Can TODs be kid-friendly? This can occur by replacing surface parking with communal gardens, playgrounds, tot-lots, and open space. Shrinking parking’s footprint reduces heat-island effects and water pollution from oil-stained run-off into streams. It also helps recharge groundwater, allowing greener and healthier gardens and play areas. Such car-restricted settings are not only safer for kids to play; they are more secure because of “natural surveillance,” the ability of residents to keep any eye on who is using community spaces.