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Inner Katy Transit Oriented Project
Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is transit-oriented development (TOD)?
    TODs are small areas with a mixture of compatible land uses that encourage walking and are linked to transit.
    Six elements of TODs are:
    • Moderate to high density development
    • Mix of compatible land uses Pedestrian friendly
    • Transit is located within easy walk of retail, residential and other uses
    • New construction and redevelopment
    • Enhanced public safety
  2. Didn’t TxDOT and/or METRO already do this?

    Other than the City’s study, no studies examined the economic impacts of high capacity transit (enhanced bus or rail) on the Katy Freeway inside Loop 610. TxDOT is designing additional feeder roads along the Katy Freeway within the boundaries of this study area. The agency is also preparing to widen the Freeway outside of Loop 610 West, just outside of the project boundaries.

    METRO is studying three potential high capacity transit corridors that intersect with this study area: Loop 610 West between SH 290 and the Galleria; the north corridor connecting Downtown, with Intercontinental Airport and the Woodlands, and the Southeast Corridor connecting downtown with Texas Southern University, University of Houston, and Hobby Airport. METRO also will take the results of this study as input into their overall plan, which includes this corridor.

  3. What was Metro's role in this project?
    METRO was a partner in this project and provided input at key points throughout the process. The agency provided existing conditions data (including existing ridership data) and other available information, performed an analysis of transit mode, ridership and associated costs, and supported community outreach and public meetings.
  4. What is the next step?
    The results of this study were given to METRO for use in formulating a regional plan for high capacity transit. METRO is now conducting a more detailed alternatives analysis study to determine the exact route they recommend. The results of this study may also be used by the community as a framework for more detailed planning efforts and help guide future development in the study area.