As part of the polarizing residential housing trend of [re-invigorated urban centers and expanded commutes for lower cost properties [Matrix]](http://matrix.millersamuelv2.wpenginepowered.com/?p=116), [mixed-use developments are springing up around the country near transit hubs [NYT]](http://www.nytimes.com/2005/11/02/realestate/02transit.html?pagewanted=print).

There is emphasis on the pedestrian environment in this new form of development, which is relatively new to the process.

Of course, another reason for this sort of development is the lower acquisition cost of properties that sit on primary transit hubs. Similar to the use of land for properties not suitable for single family housing, being developed with condos and mult-family rental buildings, this represents a logical highest and best use of these locations.

Also of interest

[Sprawling On The Couch Of Urban Living [Matrix]](http://matrix.millersamuelv2.wpenginepowered.com/?p=172)

One Comment

  1. ElamBend November 3, 2005 at 10:38 am

    Though I live in downtown Chicago, I sometimes must travel to the suburbs to check on some development projects. I try to take Metra when I can (I have one of the GC’s guys pick me up). These trips offer a great way to check the growth of higher density mixed use development at these transit hubs. The small municipalities love them for the added revenue that comes from the new homeowners and the commercial users. Some of the smaller developers I know are keen to take part in this, especially to establish mid-size commercial developments in these mini-downtowns. (ahem…lifestyle centers) For some of the municipalities these centers are becoming the downtowns they never had.
    There is also a great contrast between different towns. For instance, the more traditional focused Park Ridge (home of HRC) has always had a rather pleasant downtown and has allowed no higher density development at the transit hub, while just a few stops away, Des Plains is has several tall condo and mixed use developments.

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