Pasadena Holding Transit Oriented Development Code Meeting

The following information is from the city of Pasadena:

The public is invited to a community meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, November 14, 2013 to discuss proposed changes to the City’s Zoning Code regarding transit oriented development.  The meeting will be held at Pasadena Presbyterian Church’s Gamble Lounge, 585 E. Colorado Blvd.  Free parking is available on the north side of East Union Street.

The Transit Oriented Development (TOD) section of the City’s Zoning Code requires new businesses and buildings to encourage walking, bicycling and use of public transit.  The TOD code applies to properties within a quarter-mile radius (a five-minute walk) of a public transit station.  The TOD Code encourages options beyond driving by prohibiting some auto-oriented businesses and placing limits on the amount of parking spaces.

The TOD portion of the Zoning Code plays an important role in the City’s vision to create active, exciting, walkable Transit Villages and to make Pasadena a place where people can circulate without driving.  It also assists the City in meeting Greenhouse Gas goals, reducing air pollution and reducing the amount of traffic created by new buildings.  The TOD code helps create districts where people will be more likely to choose to walk or use alternative transportation, instead of driving, between destinations.

City staff will present the proposed changes to the TOD Ordinance, including changes on parking requirements and uses allowed.  Public feedback from this meeting will help staff with its recommendations, which eventually go before the Transportation Advisory Commission, the Planning Commission, and City Council.