A House bill in Maryland that would have created overlay districts around train stations failed to pass, but N.J. Slabbert writes that the ideas were solid and should find new life in a different form.
The bill sought to make the creation of transit-oriented development easier by creating overlay zones around rail stops:
"The creation of overlay districts would give the state greater latitude to work with local authorities to encourage denser, more diverse development around rail stations. This is a sensible idea that stands to bring Maryland many economic, infrastructural, sustainability and other benefits, while putting the state in the national forefront of regional planning and community development leadership," writes Slabbert.
The bill could be revived in the current General Assembly session, and if not, Slabbert is encouraging a push for next year.
FULL STORY: Missed opportunity for transit-oriented development in Maryland
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