Measuring Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) levels: Prioritize potential areas for TOD in Alexandria, Egypt using GIS-Spatial Multi-Criteria based model

Abstract

In various countries around the world, Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is getting more attention as one of the most comprehensive planning approaches that can stimulate sustainable development, by encouraging the integration of land-use and transport systems. It is believed that measuring the levels of TOD based on existing potential is a prerequisite for TOD planning, as it facilitates the prioritization of development interventions. In this vein, this study aims to identify and prioritize potential areas for TOD in the City of Alexandria, Egypt. This was done using spatial statistical analysis with combined models of Geographic Information System (GIS) and Spatial Multi-Criteria Analysis (SMCA). The combined models can reach a comprehensive value depicting the existing levels of TOD in an area-wide context, via an index (potential TOD index). Using this index, TOD levels were measured over 6 districts and 109 sub-districts (shyakhat), covering approximately 340 km2. Using nine potential indicators, the scores of the potential TOD index, which indicates the degree of suitability of bus stations as potential TODs, were determined. The results showed that some areas were highly suitable for TOD and had great potential in terms of re-development.