Which planning approach best promotes transit-oriented development and reduces car dependence?

• A. Isolated greenfield development.
• B. Transit-oriented development along corridors.
• C. Car-first zoning with extensive parking minimums.
• D. Rigid single-use zoning everywhere.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is to design neighborhoods so people can meet most of their daily needs within walking distance of transit, making it easy and attractive to use transit instead of a car. Transit-oriented development along corridors does exactly this by concentrating higher-density, mixed-use development in walkable blocks along a transit line. This creates vibrant street life, reduces trip lengths, and provides convenient access to buses or trains, which makes taking transit a practical and appealing choice. When housing, offices, and shops are close to stations, residents have more opportunities to walk, bike, or take public transit, lowering car use and congestion.

In contrast, isolated greenfield development tends to sprawl outward, placing homes far from jobs and services and increasing reliance on driving. Car-first zoning with extensive parking minimums carves out huge lots for cars and discourages walking or transit, reinforcing auto dependence. Rigid single-use zoning keeps uses separated, which breaks up potential mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly destinations and makes it harder to access transit on foot. By focusing development along corridors with a mix of uses and good pedestrian and transit access, the strategy best promotes reduced car dependence and more efficient, sustainable mobility.