Good for Dallas. If they can do this, unanimously, even, then there must be hope for Houston and its proponents here. We might get lucky and avoid an Ashby lawsuit, but it sure would be nice to be better prepared for this sort of thing the next time it comes around. Right?
Charles,
Can you obtain a copy of the form base studies that the city has done for the transit corridors. I have read the draft for the Harrisburg corridor.
The most interesting part of the draft study was the real estate portion. Current single family home in the east end was indicated to cost about $136k. TOD similar square footage but town home would cost $254k. UNLESS the city or other entity subsidizes it.
There is a huge demographic difference between a $136k single family home and a $254k town home. Who is moving out and who is moving in? Who is using METRO now and who will use METRO then?
Anyway. Two unique factors for consideration.
Houston does not have zoning. Thus there is a market driven factor. I am strong believer in market forces, i.e. supply and demand. How will this affect TOD. Maybe it would work best in Houston if left without zoning and let the market take care of business.
Current economic downturn. Most businesses are slowing down. Many people are losing jobs and homes - in Houston. That means slow down in businesses. Roadway construction i.e. METRO light rail could cause additional lost of business which might mean the end of more business.
Just something to think about.
Posted by: Gonzalo Camacho on March 8, 2009 8:35 PM