Allegheny County has completed a Transit Revitalization Investment District (TRID)
study in partnership with Dormont, Mt. Lebanon and
Port Authority.
Supported by a $150,000 state grant, the study identifies future land use and development scenarios for properties and sites surrounding the Dormont Junction, Potomac and Mt. Lebanon T stations. Targeting sites that are off the tax roll, the study outlines high- and low-density development options, such as redeveloping Dormont's light rail park-and-ride lot, shifting parking from streets to underground facilities and using the project's tax increment to support borough and school needs, infrastructure improvements and public transit.
"We're trying to bring something that's to scale, lay the foundation for private developers and strengthen main streets. There's a lot of support from both communities to bring more density to T stations," says George Darakos, with Allegheny County, who worked with consultant
DMJM Harris. "Each of the stations has so much potential. Developing the sites could bring new housing and potentially more revenue to each of the taxing bodies."
One of the first of its kind in the state, the study suggests developing air rights above T stations and existing properties and creating residential opportunities within walking distance to transit stops. Redevelopment and streetface improvements are also recommended for Dormont's Potomac Ave., which is home to independent businesses, restaurants and a recently restored movie theater.
As a combined
TRID district, the two communities plan to continue meeting as a team to coordinate development. Over the next three months, a TRID management team will be formed in order to identify funding sources and attract private developers. Darakos says that now that the TRID study is complete the district is expected to receive priority funding from the state.
Writer:
Jennifer BaronSource: George Darakos, Allegheny County Economic Development
Image courtesy Allegheny County Economic Development