Mobility Hub Guidelines: Tools for Achieving Successful Station Areas

Abstract

Metrolinx, the regional transportation agency for the Greater Toronto and Hamilton metropolitan area, has recently developed its first regional transportation plan. This plan identifies a system of connected mobility “hubs” to ensure the efficient coordination of land use and transportation planning. These mobility hubs generally comprise a rapid transit station and the walkable surrounding area. They serve as the origin, destination or transfer point for many trips and serve both a transport and a placemaking role. To direct the planning and development of these mobility hubs, Metrolinx recently developed the Mobility Hub Guidelines. This article summarizes the Guidelines. Two key aspects of the Guidelines are highlighted: (1) a typology for classifying the current and planned urban context and transportation function at a mobility hub; and (2) strategies to overcome challenges in achieving transportation and placemaking goals. Several case studies are provided.