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In a recent episode of the Mobility Matters podcast, the conversation focused on the benefits and the transformative potential of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) in Miami-Dade County.
Joining host and Citizens’ Independent Transportation Trust (CITT) executive director Javier Betancourt were Alice Bravo, chair of the Transportation Committee of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce (GMCC), and Javier Bustamante, assistant director of Project Management and Support Services Division for Miami-Dade County’s Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW).
Together, they discussed how integrating residential, commercial, and recreational spaces within walking distance of transit hubs can reduce traffic congestion, promote sustainable living, and enhance economic development.
Bravo highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing TOD projects, noting that collaboration between government entities and private developers is crucial for successful implementation. She also noted that as the county continues to grow, it needs to grow smarter and plan ahead for future transit needs.
“Every city around the world where you have a rapid transit system, you have intense development around the stations. And it’s that density of residential or commercial units around the stations that leads to high ridership and the use of the transit system,” Bravo said.
She also emphasized the importance of integrating various transportation modes to enhance mobility and reduce congestion.
Bustamante highlighted the county’s commitment to expanding public transit options, including the development of the Strategic Miami Area Rapid Transit (SMART) Program corridors.
“In the past, it was about how much ground rent can we collect,” Bustamante said of land where TODs are now being built. “Putting those dollars, which is still important, back into the system is great, but what else…So, it’s not about being so hyper focused on the top dollar market value for the ground, but more about being hyper focused on what are the unit mixes and ensuring affordability, walkability and connectivity.”
Both Bravo and Bustamante acknowledged the challenges posed by rapid urban development and the necessity of public-private partnerships to fund and implement transportation projects.
They also agreed that community engagement and equitable access are critical components of successful transit planning.
Further, the conversation underscored a shared vision for a more connected and accessible Miami-Dade, with ongoing efforts to modernize the transportation network and improve the quality of life for residents.
You can watch the full podcast by going to CITT’s Facebook page at Facebook.com/TransportationTrust, or on Miami’s Community Newspapers YouTube channel: @communitynewspapers1946.
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