Rust belt revitilization: retrofitting communities through transit oriented development

Abstract

The American Railway system increased rapidly in the late and early 19th century altering the dynamics of surrounding cities and their role in urbanism. Railways, a product of the Industrial Revolution, fundamentally transformed the possibilities of urban growth, economic exchange, and public transportation. As a result, cities became increasingly tied together, altering perceptions of travel, and opening doors to new opportunities. This thesis project will explore the impact of railways, specifically those associated with Transit Oriented Development. This growing method in urbanism seeks to create mixed-use communities centered around high quality transit systems to create vibrant, livable, and sustainable communities that stimulate the local economy and help to revitalize urban areas. Currently, the geographic region spanning from New York through the Midwest is synonymous with a problem of industrial decline, loss of population density, and declining neighborhoods leading to a loss of community identity historically associated with each respected region. Once booming production hubs of steel, coal, and the automotive industry is now home to shrinking cities in need of an architectural intervention. Recent reports regarding Transit-Oriented Development have shown it to be a critical factor in revitalizing such urban areas through access to better jobs, education, and a reduction in the area’s carbon footprint. In addition, the rust belt region presents itself as a unique and special opportunity to experiment with creating a culture of transit-oriented communities that act as the generators of population growth and economic renewal to preserve each area’s unique historical background. Additionally, I will analyze key case studies and conduct site analysis through the lens of Transit Oriented Development to understand the impacts on surrounding communities. This method will provide insight into the principles of rail technology, rider participation, and critical architectural programming methods that are key factors for promoting urban growth. I will also perform an asset-based development study to understand how proximity to public transit can be crucial in creating transit-oriented communities. To conclude, this thesis seeks to explore the possibility of a transportation hub to aid in the urban revitalization of the Rust Belt region, positioning itself as a generator of equitable opportunity hence promoting social and economic growth.