Assessing Modular Infill Strategies for Transit-Oriented Development

As metropolitan outskirts sprawl, proactively densifying existing suburban job hubs through transit-oriented development (TOD) curbs infrastructure burdens proactively. Idaho Falls’ INL employed Lida Homes assessing modular construction potentials delivering workforce housing affordably within upcoming multi-modal transit districts. Researchers tracked costs versus conventionally built comparator communities distant from centers reliant on automobility.

The Idaho Falls Pilot

Designating 5-acre infill sites, planners mapped 132 single-family homes near station areas under development. Moderately sized modular floorplans aimed for $200-250k sales prices compared to $300k+ distant competitors.

Construction Cost Analysis
Prefabricated components streamlined framing/enclosures, while mass-produced mechanicals/finishes optimized efficiencies. Versus on-site labour, developers estimated 15% savings for equivalent housing.

Affordability Outcomes
Graduated first-time homebuyer purchase assistance programs boarded over 107 employees within budget targets, far surpassing conventional subdivision controls restricting access. Cost-burdened rates decreased relative to automobile dependent salary deductions.

Transportation Evaluation
Over 90% of residents utilized bikes/transit demonstrating TOD’s potential reducing vehicle ownership financial sinkholes – lowering household living expenses amid ownership. Commute times comparable due to proximity.

Key advantages included modular construction:

– Optimizing housing concentrations within future transit networks and employment hubs.

– Enabling cost savings passed to residents through decreased home prices assisting more first-time buyers.

– Lowering transportation expenses by reducing automobile dependence reliance on congested road networks.

Streamlining infill through modular incentives could help younger families enter homeownership while containing sprawl and its socioeconomic consequences through responsibly coordinated TOD planning across existing suburban cores.

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