Senate bill would give $4 billion to transit-oriented development

Would create new grant program

Steve Hawley, Aug 10, 09.

Four US senators have introduced the Livable Communities Act, a bill that would provide $4 billion to help cities and states pursue transit-oriented development, according to Streetsblog DC.

Streetsblog reports that the bill would “[authorize] $4 billion in grants to help states and cities pursue transit-oriented development, bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, and other green transport projects,” creating a new office in the Department of Housing and Urban Development to oversee two new grant programs. “The first,” the article notes, “slated for $400 million over four years, would help states and cities implement regional plans that integrate sustainable housing, transportation, and community development. The second, slated for $3.75 billion over three years, would assist localities in making their plans materialize, from affordable housing to bike-ped access.”

The bill was introduced by Sen. Chris Dodd of Connecticut and co-sponsored by Sens. Michael Bennet of Colorado, Robert Menendez of New Jersey, and Jeff Merkley of Oregon. In a statement, Dodd said:

By encouraging sustainable development at the local, regional, and federal level, the Livable Communities Act will help communities cut traffic congestion, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption, protect green spaces, create more affordable housing, and revitalize existing Main Streets and urban centers.