Raleigh’s Transit Overlay District: Enhancing Transit and Development

​As Raleigh plans for its future, Transit Oriented Development has emerged as a key strategy for sustainable equitable development. Over the past five months, the Raleigh City Council has been developing a vision aimed at supporting growth and development alongside sustainable transit solutions. Central to this vision is the Transit Overlay District, a zoning innovation focused on bolstering transit lines such as the upcoming Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system by providing them with the density they need to ensure ridership. On July 2, the council completed rezoning over 600 individual property parcels along the New Bern Avenue corridor to complement the BRT system, aligning future development with the new mass transit system.

Understanding Transit Overlay Districts

​A Transit Overlay District is a specialized zoning tool designed to maximize the effectiveness of transit systems by promoting compact, mixed-use developments around transit hubs and stations. These districts encourage the density necessary to sustain and enhance transit ridership, aligning with Raleigh’s commitment to sustainable urban planning and improved accessibility.
Raleigh’s initiative to establish Transit Overlay Districts is part of a broader strategy to integrate transit planning with urban development goals. Transit systems need density to be able to function. By concentrating jobs, retail spaces, and multifamily housing near transit hubs, the city aims to create vibrant, walkable communities that reduce car dependence and enhance the urban environment.

Focus on New Bern Avenue Corridor

​With the recent groundbreaking of the Bus Rapid Transit system on the New Bern Avenue corridor, there is a high level of interest from both city council and local citizens to get the development around this first BRT installment right. By dividing zoning decisions into 6 zones along New Bern Avenue, instead of rezoning the whole line at once, the City Council was able to better tailor zoning decisions to diverse community needs—from historic residential areas to bustling business zones and healthcare facilities.
The success of the New Bern Avenue Transit Overlay District is not only about immediate impacts but also about laying the groundwork for the three remaining legs of this system: North up Capitol Blvd., South down Wilmington Ave., and West along Western Blvd. A thriving transit corridor here could strengthen public support and attract additional funding for further transit developments, benefiting the entire city.

Looking Ahead

​As Raleigh continues to evolve, initiatives like the Transit Overlay District demonstrate the city’s proactive approach to urban planning. By integrating transit infrastructure with thoughtful zoning policies, Raleigh is paving the way for a more sustainable and connected future.
Stay informed about developments like the Transit Overlay District and other legislative updates by visiting our webpage or following us on all social media platforms at @raleighchamber.
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For more information on Raleigh’s Transit Overlay District and related projects, please visit the City of Raleigh’s official webpage.