Launching a trailblazing collaboration, the Detroit Shoreway Community Development Organization (DSCDO) and Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) joined forces to provide transportation options to the transit-oriented development (TOD) project, Aspen Place. The development is a 100 percent affordable housing project with 40 units ranging from one to four bedrooms. The non-profit and public partnership included DSCDO purchasing the TOD site from the RTA and entering into a parking agreement with the authority. The two organizations also negotiated a per-unit purchase of RTA transit passes—one of the RTA’s first arrangements with a residential property owner.

TOD is a growing trend in creating vibrant and sustainable communities that leverage access to high-quality transit. Aspen Place is immediately adjacent to an RTA Rapid Transit Station and serviced by an RTA bus line. The TOD is part of Detroit Shoreway’s EcoVillage project that aims to provide environmentally conscious, pedestrian-friendly design in all new development. EcoVillage also strives to ensure high standards in energy and water efficiency, indoor air quality, and accessibility by meeting Enterprise Green Communities criteria, a green building program designed explicitly for the affordable housing sector.

Developed, owned, and operated by the DSCDO, Aspen Place is an example of transit-oriented development that capitalizes on neighborhood assets and takes advantage of an innovative partnership with Greater Cleveland RTA. To learn more about Aspen Place and other good ideas from around Ohio, visit: www.greaterohio.org/good-ideas-initiative

Image Source: Marous Brothers Construction