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In the late 1980s and early 1990s a number of academics and planners enthusiastically espoused the concept of transit-oriented development (TOD), but actual construction and implementation of TOD projects was slow to follow. Empirical studies of the time showed that new transit lines had a rather timid effect in triggering new development along their corridors. This seems to have changed in recent years, and many more TOD projects have started appearing along new railway corridors. The study uses two light rail lines in Los Angeles County to explain the new-found popularity of TODs. Drawing from interviews with architects, planners and developers, the study outlines the new opportunities but also challenges faced by transit-oriented development today. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper examines the Blue Line corridor, a 22-mile rail transportation route that connects downtown Los Angeles to downtown Long Beach. The line passes through some of the most neglected and poorest communities in Los Angeles County. Despite initial rhetoric by rail advocates and local politicians the line has not succeeded in improving the economic environment of adjacent communities. In this paper we use the Blue Line as a case-study in an effort to understand the real and perceived barriers to growth around inner city station areas. Based on information gathered through a series of interviews with politicians, planners, community leaders and transportation experts, and site analysis data from extensive field-work, we identify the 'missing antecedents' for neighbourhood development around inner city station areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]