ETOD 101 explainers
Need help understanding the basics of equitable transit-oriented development (ETOD) and how it differs from other types of urban development?
In this 4-part video and blog series funded by the MetLife Foundation, Elevated Chicago busts common ETOD myths and explains why ETOD exists in Chicago.
Table of contents
ETOD 101 video and blog series
ETOD 101 for community members
What is equitable transit-oriented development (ETOD)? How does it differ from transit-oriented development (TOD)? And what does it mean for your local community?
Explore a brief history of the rise of ETOD projects in Chicago. Topics covered include the history of disinvestment and gentrification in the city, the rise of ETOD policy, the current pipeline of ETODs in Chicago, examples of finished projects, and ways you can get involved in advocating for ETOD in your neighborhood.
How ETOD serves Black and Brown neighborhoods
ETOD is for every neighborhood, and it is especially beneficial for the South and West Sides of Chicago, which have historically been deprioritized in transit-oriented development decisions and investments.
Black and Brown neighborhoods have fewer ETODs, more vacant land, access to fewer jobs within a 30-minute transit ride, and higher instances of flooding.
ETOD is an alternative way of urban planning that invests in Black and Brown neighborhoods and keeps money within the community, while connecting more residents to affordable, climate-friendly transportation options through public transit.
The case for right-size parking in Chicago
Did you know that people regularly overestimate the number of parking spots needed at new developments located near transit? Building all that extra and often unused parking can actually make rents less affordable. And excess parking can actually create more traffic on the roads for drivers.
The Connected Communities Ordinance incentivizes developers to reduce the number of parking spaces at ETODs and offers a density bonus to those who build more affordable housing units in lieu of parking spaces.
ETOD offers more choices in the way Chicagoans use transit to navigate their lives, whether they walk, roll, scoot, bike or drive.
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