Transit Adjacent Development and Neighborhood Change in Houston

Houston Metro light rail

Texas Watchdog/flickr

This study explores how land use has changed between 2010 and 2016 in transit adjacent development (TAD) areas of Harris County, defined as census block groups within one mile of light rail stations, transit centers, and Park & Ride locations.

This study explores how land use has changed between 2010 and 2016 in Harris County's transit adjacent development (TAD) areas, which are census block groups within one mile of light rail stations, transit centers, and Park & Ride locations.

Overall, we find changes in transit-adjacent neighborhoods are most dramatic in areas that are experiencing or are likely to experience gentrification, according to previous Kinder Institute research. Additionally, the neighborhoods are more likely to become more residential and attract white, higher-income residents. 

Addressing potential displacement of longtime residents will require the creation of policies that give residents of all income levels the ability to live in transit-connected communities.

This is the second report in our current series on gentrification — the first report establishes a gentrification typology in Harris County. The third report highlights the different types of housing development that occur when a neighborhood gentrifies.

Photo: Texas Watchdog/Flickr

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