Urbanizing the Suburbs: A Transit-Oriented Development for Reston, Virginia

Abstract

American urban development during the late 19th and early 20th century allowed for vibrant and successful city centers, while also decentralizing living options to transit-serviced suburbs. After WWII, freeway-based suburban sprawl and urban decay replaced this healthy form of development. Significant urban revitalization during the past two decades has largely failed to address the continuing economic, social and environmental concerns raised by the sprawl-based development outside our cities. Addressing the need for greater regional planning, Transit-Oriented Development ("TOD") offers a framework for capitalizing on existing infrastructure by augmenting underutilized neighborhoods with regional transit access, spurring urban/suburban renewal, and creating walkable, mixed-use communities. This thesis will: 1) identify TOD best practices; 2) apply these best practices to a TOD proposal for a proposed Metrorail stop in the Reston, Virginia, area; and 3) explore the influence a mixed-use transit station can have as part of a TOD of the chosen site.