Transit Oriented Development in the Palm Beaches

Samuel Justice Albee, Community, Environment, and Planning

With the creation of the new Coastal Link Tri-Rail extension in South Florida, there is a large opportunity for the region to utilize space more efficiently and equitably. This project uses suitability analysis and GIS to examine and evaluate potential sites for strategic redevelopment and the construction of transit-oriented development. The South Florida area is largely dependent on car usage, even in the urban cores. The current commuter train is west of the most densely populated areas, however the new Coastal Link will run through the most densely populated areas, providing more connectivity within the region. Additionally, the new high-speed Brightline train will run on the same tracks, acting as an express service. With these new infrastructure projects, the traditionally sprawling South Florida has the opportunity to develop into a more sustainable and equitable region.