Tempe land values increasing near light rail

[phantom power]

More evidence that urban-friendly zoning is at least as important as access to public transit.

The average increase for all sales transactions near Tempe stations was up 429 percent this year.

This increase is because of Tempe’s updated zoning codes, which allow for larger buildings that are in line with public transit-oriented development, according to the report.

(...)

Two areas that have seen a decrease in land value are around the South Sycamore and West Main Street station in Mesa and the North 44th Street and East Washington Street in Phoenix, according to the study.

(...)

The loss in value was because of Mesa’s outdated zoning codes, which prohibit mixed-use developments, she said.

Much like Mesa, the area surrounding the 44th Street station in Phoenix does not allow buildings such as high rises or structures with built-in parking, which are typically more convenient for public-transit passengers, Kittrell said.

Kittrell said this is because of a “lack of vision from the city of Phoenix.”

http://www.statepress.com/node/7674

http://www.eschatonblog.com/2009/09/land-use-rules.html

[marybourg]

1. Altho I'm a big fan of light rail, I have to point out

that the startling increase in sales transactions near light rail terminals is largely because a year ago the light rail was still under construction and shopping in the area was difficult to impossible.

[JDPriestly]

2. Light rail is the future. We have some in Los Angeles that works really well.

The population is aging. As we age, we drive less willingly if not less well. Light rail with senior housing nearby is the answer.