Regional Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Action Plan (RFP# 2018-0024)

As defined by SB 375, the Metropolitan Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (MTP/SCS) is a land use and transportation plan for greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction. The GHG reduction achieved by the MTP/SCS is based upon a certain amount of regional growth occurring in areas of higher density conducive to high quality transit service. This project is critical for Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) and the communities of the Sacramento region to position transit and transit-oriented development (TOD) competitively for the long-term implementation of the MTP/SCS and achievement of the SB 375 GHG reduction targets. In doing so, the project will help the region to realize the mobility, access, environmental, health, equity, and quality of life benefits of effective transit and TOD. There is a large body of research, including the MTP/SCS, connecting transportation with land use, the economic, health, and other quality of life benefits that are achievable when this relationship is intentional and planned, and when TOD provides equitable options for low-income residents and those who do not, cannot or prefer not to drive to live near transit. This project integrates transit and land use planning to optimize transit services and transit oriented development (TOD) to increase transit ridership in the Sacramento area. The project will inventory and assess light rail station areas for the highest and best equitable TOD uses to support transit use, including affordable housing. These light rail stations are located in the cities of Folsom, Rancho Cordova, Sacramento, and unincorporated Sacramento County. The project includes engagement with stakeholders, local agencies, the business and development community, and regional partners to assess appropriate equitable TOD opportunities for light rail station areas. It will work with jurisdictions and SacRT to share best practices and develop new and/or revised guidelines, procedures, policies, development standards and action steps to encourage TOD land uses in light rail station areas, including for SacRT-owned properties. It will also include strategies to prevent gentrification/displacement that might otherwise result from increased TOD investment. Overall, the project should be focused on clear actions needed to encourage and facilitate TOD.