As a proactive planning and financing tool, TIDs are consistent with several elements that support Planning for Complete Communities in Delaware:
Complete Streets
One focus of DelDOT’s Complete Streets Policy is to ensure that all users are considered in planning, designing, building, operating, and maintaining the state’s multi-modal transportation system. TIDs can incorporate Complete Street principles and provide context-sensitive solutions based on the planned use and classification of a roadway. TIDs can help plan for and finance the construction of transportation facilities that enhance safety and accessibility, serve users of all ages and abilities, support multiple transportation modes, advance community livability, and support the development of a good business climate.
Rehoboth Avenue Streetscape
Credit: Benjamin Brewer of Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT)
Efficient Land Use
In Delaware, local governments historically have had primary responsibility for land use planning, but have played a minor role in planning for transportation investments. Traditionally, state departments of transportation (DOTs), including DelDOT, have controlled the location, design, construction, and financing of major transportation infrastructure, but have had little influence over land use decisions. TIDs can support efficient land use by integrating transportation and land use decisions. When TIDs are considered and mapped within a comprehensive plan, and used in conjunction with a sound capital improvement plan, they be an effective tool for ensuring adequate infrastructure to accommodate growth where and when it is anticipated.
Credit: James Pernol, DelDOT
Sustainable and Resilient
TIDs support sustainability and resiliency by directing development to planned growth areas. TIDs can be used to plan, direct, and coordinate growth to priority areas that are consistent with growth-oriented investment levels described and identified within the Delaware Strategies for State Policies and Spending. DelDOT regulations require local government comprehensive plans to “list and map any TIDs.” TIDs that are identified in a local government comprehensive plan and planned within a Level 1, 2, or 3 growth area, can serve to direct transportation investments to master planned areas, a Downtown Development District, and/or other areas ripe for market-ready (re)development.
Downtown Lewes, Del.
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