Central Indiana Trail-Oriented Development Study
Trail-oriented Development (TrOD) is a planning approach that clusters residential and commercial spaces around trails, creating walkable, human-scaled environments designed for active transportation, recreation, and business growth. Central Indiana features a growing network of trails, including the Monon Trail and Fall Creek Trail, with vibrant areas like Broad Ripple and Carmel Midtown successfully embracing TrOD principles. Expanding trails, such as the Nickel Plate Trail and Eagle Creek Trail, offer new opportunities for quality TrOD.
This study examines the factors contributing to successful TrOD, identifies promising development nodes, proposes design guidelines, and provides tools to overcome challenges. It emphasizes the benefits of TrOD, such as improving transportation options, enhancing public health, boosting local economies, and promoting social equity. The document also includes best practices, design recommendations, and actionable strategies to guide TrOD implementation across Central Indiana.
Author: Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization (IMPO)
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Everyone deserves access to safe ways to walk, bike, and be active outdoors.