Mayor Brandon Johnson announced on May 20 that commercial corridors in areas served by public transit could soon be eligible for a new zoning designation aimed at encouraging pedestrian-friendly development. The proposal, introduced to City Council, would create Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Streets with specific zoning standards to support walkable, mixed-use projects and higher-density housing near train stations and qualifying bus lines.
The measure targets corridors within half a mile of a Chicago Transit Authority or Metra train station or within a quarter mile of certain CTA bus routes. These TOD Street designations would include restrictions on automobile-focused businesses such as drive-thrus, vehicle sales lots, gas stations, and similar uses along designated corridors.
According to the city’s announcement, the TOD Street tool is intended as a broader approach than the existing P-Street designation in Chicago’s zoning code. The current P-Street rules exclude many business and commercial corridors from eligibility. Under the new proposal, more areas could benefit from policies designed to foster vibrant pedestrian environments.
The Department of Planning and Development would collaborate with City Council members on pairing future TOD Street designations with upzoning efforts near transit lines. This initiative builds upon previous city actions that proactively upzoned nearly 5,000 parcels across Chicago over the past two years.
The Chicago Department of Planning and Development has promoted efforts to enhance walkable neighborhoods and accessible waterfronts while supporting business growth and historic preservation initiatives in the city. The department employs more than 150 staff focused on advancing comprehensive growth strategies, sustainability measures, and zoning policies centered on Chicago’s built environment under Commissioner Ciere Boatright according to the official website.
