RDA Update: Planning for Transit Oriented Development Moves Ahead

mapThe Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority hosted another series of transit oriented development planning sessions in February in Munster and Hammond to get feedback from residents on what kind of development they would like to see around South Shore stations in their communities.

The recently completed update to the RDA comprehensive strategic plan calls for construction of the West Lake Corridor from Hammond to Dyer as well as double tracking the existing line from Tennessee Street in Gary all the way to Michigan City. These twin projects would significantly increase capacity on the South Shore line, increasing frequency of service and decreasing travel times to and from Chicago.

As a result, Northwest Indiana would attract new residents and development to communities on and near the line. Over 20 years, the RDA expects about $2.3 billion in development in Dyer, Munster, Hammond, Gary, Miller, East Chicago and Portage/Ogden Dunes -- $1.9 billion of which represents private investment in new residential, commercial and office development.

For more information on transit oriented development on the West Lake Corridor, visit our TOD Web site: http://westlaketod.civicpage.com/