Saturday, September 8, 2007

Metro's station development program warrants much criticism [Metro, Sept. 2], but local governments shouldn't be let off the hook.

Metro deserves credit for creating a critical task force that called for transforming its process to be more predictable and understandable to developers, residents and local governments. The transit authority must have a stronger presence in planning efforts to ensure that Metro's full value is realized and to recognize the role each station plays in a regional transit system. But local governments -- not the transit agency -- hold the key to shaping land use around Metro stations.

Local governments are making new efforts to guide development around Metro stations. Much more, however, is needed to ensure that pedestrian-friendly development at stations is the top priority of local jurisdictions. Local governments must ensure more community involvement, hire top-flight consultants and use visually oriented design workshops to develop consensus plans. They must then work with Metro to streamline approvals for projects built to community plans.

Rising energy prices, congestion, air pollution, global warming and the need for access to affordable transportation make Metro station development essential.

CHERYL CORT

Policy Director

Coalition for Smarter Growth

Washington

The writer was a member of the Washington Metro Area Transit Authority's Joint Development Task Force.