Launched in 2019, the web-based Transit-Oriented Development Explorer (TODEX) features a user-friendly tool that allows users to review densities at all 261 Greater Boston transit stations. Visit the site at www.mhp.net/todex.
TODEX is based on a new methodology MHP's Center for Housing Data developed to estimate the number of homes at the parcel and lot level. This new method employs multiple data sets in order to create a consistent, accurate, and comparable metric that can be used to compare housing patterns across municipal borders.
In addition to the user-friendly tool, TODEX includes a research brief that discusses the methodology and the potential for developing more housing around transit in order to help the Commonwealth address a number of policy issues ranging from the economy, equity, transportation, housing supply and climate. The research brief is available here and on the TODEX site.
At the time of its release, TODEX estimated that there were approximately 469,000 homes in the station areas at Greater Boston's 261 transit stops (about 6.5 homes per acre). TODEX estimated that if we increased density to 10 homes per acre across these neighborhoods near transit, it would create an additional 253,000 homes.
If you have questions or comments about TODEX, email MHP Director of Research and Analytics Tom Hopper at thopper@mhp.net.