RESOURCES

Learn more about the issues involved in this project.

 
 

1. Transit Oriented Development (TOD).

 
 

Transit-oriented development, or TOD, connects public transportation systems to the design of the surrounding environment. TOD includes a mix of commercial, residential, office and entertainment centered around or located near transit stations. Dense, walkable, mixed-use development near transit attracts people and adds to vibrant, connected communities. (source: FTA)

Successful TOD depends on access and density around the transit station. Convenient access to transit fosters development, while density encourages people to use the transit system. Focusing growth around transit stations capitalizes on public investments in transit and provides many benefits, including:

  • improved safety for pedestrians and cyclists

  • increased ridership and revenue for transit systems

  • revitalization of neighborhoods

  • economic returns to surrounding properties and local businesses

  • congestion relief and environmental benefits

  • a larger supply of affordable housing

Video explains the benefits of Transit-Oriented Development

 
 
 

2. Benefits of public transit.

 
 

Public transit plays an important role in communities. In Cleveland, RTA’s public transit services include buses, light rail (rapid transit lines), bus rapid transit, and paratransit services for senior citizens and people with disabilities. These transportation services provide critical needs for residents, employees, and visitors.

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) provides transportation services for 150,000 - 200,000 customers on a typical weekday, or about 45 million rides annually. RTA’s customers include every demographic in Greater Cleveland. Public transit affects every level of society, including individuals, families, neighborhoods, and businesses.

Many different parts of our American economy benefit from public transit. Here is a brief summary from the American Public Transportation Association:

  • Since 1996, public transportation ridership has increased by 31%—a growth rate higher than the 20% increase in U.S. population

  • Millenials consider public transportation as the best option for digital socializing and among the best for connecting with communities

  • Every $1 invested in public transportation generates $4 in economic returns

  • A household can save nearly $10,000 by taking public transportation and living with one less car.

“Public transportation transforms communities and the lives of the people living in them by spurring economic development, promoting sustainable lifestyles and providing a higher quality of life.”

— American Public Transportation Association

 
 
 

3. Bus Rapid Transit (BRT).

 
 

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is a high-quality bus-based transit system that delivers fast and efficient service that may include dedicated lanes, busways, traffic signal priority, off-board fare collection, elevated platforms and enhanced stations. (source: FTA) Currently, RTA offers three BRT routes:

The HealthLine on Euclid Avenue provides service and operational characteristics associated with rail, with a rubber-tired Rapid Transit Vehicle (RTVs). There are 24 RTVs, including 21 hybrid-electric.  Each is 63 feet long, serving nearly 20,000 daily customers at 36 stations along the Corridor.

The HealthLine operates 24/7, with a rush-hour frequency of every 8 minutes. The HealthLine, which began in 2008, serves 10 percent of RTA's customers. 

In December 2014, RTA added a second BRT service, the Cleveland State Line, which connects the West Shore communities with Downtown, via Clifton Boulevard, with 15 articulated vehicles and 19 special bus stations branded for CSU. In its first year of operation, ridership grew more than 31 percent.

In December 2017, the MetroHealth Line began serving the West 25th Street Corridor, and five facilities, including the Main Campus. It replaces the 51 family of routes—the second-highest ridership route at RTA. Service is 24/7, with approximately 200 trips daily.

Video above describes the benefits of VIA Primo, the first Bus Rapid Transit Service in San Antonio. [In Spanish language] Click the link below to learn about other BRT projects in the U.S.

 
 
 

4. Clark Fulton Together Plan.

 
 

Metro West Community Development Organization is partnering with the Office of Ward 14 Councilwoman Jasmin Santana, MetroHealth System, the Cleveland Foundation, and the City of Cleveland to produce a resident-driven community master plan for the Clark-Fulton neighborhood. Together, these partners form the Core Team that will be supporting and guiding this year-long study, which will envision strategies to create a more healthy, equitable and sustainable future for this vibrant and diverse community.