Achieving Transportation and Land Use Credits in LEED for Cities and Communities: Five Key Factors

In the quest for sustainable urban development, the Transportation and Land Use category of LEED for Cities and Communities stands out as a critical area for local governments aiming to enhance their environmental performance and livability. At Firstgreen Consulting, we have guided numerous clients through the intricacies of achieving credits in this category. Here, we distill our experience into five key factors that are instrumental in navigating and succeeding in the Transportation and Land Use credits.

1. Comprehensive Data Collection and Analysis

The foundation of a successful LEED certification effort in Transportation and Land Use lies in the meticulous collection and analysis of data related to vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per capita and the modal split for commuting. This data not only fulfills the prerequisites but also informs strategies for reducing reliance on single-occupancy vehicles. Local governments should extend their data collection efforts to encompass non-commuter travel as well, offering a holistic view of transportation patterns within the city. This comprehensive dataset serves as the baseline for targeted interventions to enhance multimodal transportation options and reduce environmental impacts.

2. Development of Compact Mixed-Use Centers (CCC)

The creation and promotion of Compact and Complete Centers (CCCs) are central to earning points in the compact mixed-use and transit-oriented development credit. These centers should be designed to support a high density of diverse uses, including residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, within walkable distances. Achieving a walk score and transit score of greater than 70 in each CCC is pivotal. Local governments must demonstrate a commitment to directing population and job growth towards these centers, supported by incentives for development that aligns with these goals.

3. Enhancement of Multimodal Accessibility

Safe and accessible multimodal transportation networks are essential for reducing dependency on single-occupancy vehicles. This involves a comprehensive approach that includes the development of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, the improvement of transit service quality, and the implementation of street and intersection designs that prioritize transit, walking, and biking. Local governments should aim to achieve a balanced modal split that reflects a significant reduction in car dependency, supported by policies and infrastructure that encourage diverse modes of transportation.

4. Promotion of Clean Transportation Options

Transitioning to electric and alternative fuel vehicles is a crucial step towards reducing pollution and achieving the clean transportation credit. Cities should adopt strategies that promote vehicle electrification, including the development of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and the planning for school bus electrification. Additionally, the provision of alternative fuel stations at strategic locations can facilitate the shift towards cleaner transportation modes, contributing to improved air quality and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

5. Implementation of Mobility Management Strategies

Mobility management strategies play a vital role in managing demand for single-occupancy vehicle use and mitigating traffic congestion. This includes the adoption of transportation demand management (TDM) policies, parking management strategies, and the promotion of smart mobility solutions. By encouraging the use of non-driving transportation subsidies, implementing parking maximums, and supporting city-wide smart transportation systems, local governments can effectively manage transportation demand and foster a more sustainable urban mobility landscape.

Conclusion

Achieving Transportation and Land Use credits in LEED for Cities and Communities requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the complexities of urban transportation and land use planning. By focusing on these five key factors, local governments can navigate the certification process more effectively and make substantial progress towards sustainable urban development. At Firstgreen Consulting, we are committed to supporting our clients in this endeavor, leveraging our expertise to facilitate the achievement of LEED certification and the realization of more sustainable, livable cities.