At the January 9th Metro PAC meeting, Metro launched discussion on the Transit Oriented Community (TOC) Policy and developed plans to present a final version to the Metro Board in June. Metro kicked off the discussion with a presentation contextualizing the TOC policy, and released a draft document on what the TOC Policy might cover. A break-out discussion followed on the policy details.
The development of a TOC policy is part of a larger effort to incentivize local jurisdictions to adopt equitable-TOC measures, such as enhancing community walkability and implementing anti-displacement strategies. Advocates have been emphasizing the impact of transit on communities, and the need for intentional and inclusive transit development policies in the LA metro area. Measure M Guidelines provide an opportunity to push a TOC policy forward as it would define TOC activities with transportation purposes, which is needed to delineate eligibility for Measure M money from sources like Local Returns.
A subset of the Metro PAC will meet bi-weekly starting next week to develop the policy. The working group plans to present a draft to the Metro Board in April and a final version in June of 2018.
This working period provides a great opportunity for you to give feedback on the TOC Policy! We want to hear from you about what should be included. Materials for each bi-weekly meeting will be sent out five working days prior to the meeting, so be on the look-out for updates on our blog. Subscribe below in the bottom-right corner to make sure you don’t miss out!
Here is a summary of what was discussed at the last TOC break-out session at the January Metro PAC meeting. One issue that still needs resolving is defining the geographic scope of TOC activities. Comment below any initial thoughts you have about the TOC Policy and break-out discussion! For further input, contact your PAC representative, Bryn Lindblad, Deputy Director of Climate Resolve, by e-mail (blindblad@climateresolve.org) or phone (213-634-3790 x 102).