Working with the Detroit Department of Transportation, this project
outlines a Transit‐Oriented Development (TOD) plan in conjunction with the
impending Woodward Avenue Light Rail Train (LRT). Three separate stations and
their surrounding areas have been planned from a TOD perspective, incorporating
proven design elements from other examples (e.g. an increase in pedestrian
amenities and accessibility), while still incorporating the unique characteristics and
composition of the local neighborhoods. Each plan is different, yet all promise to
promote ridership and growth in tandem with the new train. Ideally the new train
would be carbon‐neutral, and current technologies and prices are reviewed to
highlight the challenges facing a zero‐emissions train. However with 22,000 daily
passengers expected, the train will largely subtract from overall emissions. With
each station smartly designed around TOD principles, we demonstrate how the
Woodward Avenue LRT can grow in turn with the Detroit for decades to come.