Developers' perspectives on transit-oriented development in Edmonton, Alberta

Edmonton is currently implementing a plan to significantly expand its light rail transit network. Transit expansion is part of a larger plan to encourage transit-oriented development (TOD) around new and existing transit stations and precipitate a shift towards more dense, efficient land use. Transit technology and routes were then selected, in part, based on their perceived ability to facilitate TOD, and the City has also created the TOD Guidelines and created the TOD Manager position to advance their land use goals. This research includes interviews with 6 developers who are currently undertaking large TOD projects to understand their perceptions of TOD as an investment in the Edmonton, and how effectively municipal decisions have facilitated TOD. The TOD Manager was interviewed, as he plays a critical role in facilitating TOD in Edmonton, as was a planner from the City of Edmonton to provide insight into TOD from a planning perspective and the development approvals process. Key words: urban planning, transit-oriented development (TOD), light rail transit (LRT), Edmonton