METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

USDOT Issues Guidance for TOD Projects Seeking Loans Through the Build America Bureau

Community-focused investments like TOD are integral to the Biden-Harris Administration’s priorities, including connecting communities and reducing the climate impacts of transportation.

by METRO Staff
May 24, 2021
USDOT Issues Guidance for TOD Projects Seeking Loans Through the Build America Bureau

 

2 min to read


The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) is issuing new guidance that clarifies the eligibility of transit-oriented development (TOD) projects for specific Department resources.

The USDOT’s Build America Bureau (Bureau) developed this guidance for public and private entities seeking loans for transit-oriented development projects through the Transportation Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (TIFIA) and Railroad Rehabilitation & Improvement Financing (RRIF) programs.

Ad Loading...

TOD centers economic development around transit, rail, and intercity bus facilities — to create walkable residential and commercial centers. Community-focused investments like TOD are integral to the Biden-Harris Administration’s priorities, including connecting communities and reducing the climate impacts of transportation. The guidance is intended to help project sponsors understand the parameters for TOD projects to qualify for financing under the TIFIA and RRIF loan programs.

“When people can move safely and easily by public transit, foot, bike, wheelchair, or any other means, it can transform a community and improve the lives of those who call it home. The announcement will help communities use transit-oriented development to save residents time and money, reduce pollution and carbon emissions, and make jobs accessible to more people,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Congress, under the FAST Act, determined that TIFIA and RRIF financing could support TOD projects, but the Department had not set clear eligibility guidelines, which became a barrier to using these funds for that purpose. This new guidance opens the door to project sponsors interested in pursuing transit oriented development in keeping with the Biden-Harris Administration's priorities.

The announcement follows the Department’s actions in April, when the FTA announced the availability of $10 million in grants for TOD projects.

The Bureau is USDOT’s “one-stop shop” for innovative finance, including administering the TIFIA and RRIF programs and providing technical assistance for agencies interested in innovative finance. The Bureau has financed scores of projects and enabled billions of dollars of investment to improve the safety and connectivity of the national transportation system. There is nearly $100 billion of lending capacity available through the TIFIA and RRIF programs.

Ad Loading...

The new transit oriented development guidelines are available here.

More Management

Terrel Smith on a bus with Kiel seats

Terrel Smith Launches New TransitOne Venture, Focuses on Building Relationships

The company partners with manufacturers such as Kiel Seating, Camira Fabric, and TSI Video, focusing on areas that directly impact both passenger experience and operational performance.

Read More →
A group of people stand in the Harlem-148 Street 3 Station and pose during a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Managementby StaffMay 4, 2026

New Accessibility Upgrades Open at Harlem Subway Station

A new ADA-compliant ramp and station upgrades improve access, enhance the rider experience, and deliver millions in cost savings for the MTA.

Read More →
Erin Hockman
Managementby StaffMay 4, 2026

Iowa's DART Taps New CEO

Erin Hockman will officially assume the role on May 7, as current CEO Amanda Wanke departs to take a leadership position with Metro Transit in the Twin Cities.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Caltrain trains on tracks
Railby StaffMay 1, 2026

Caltrain Survey Shows Record-High Rider Approval

The survey showed that commute trips still make up the majority of ridership, with most riders boarding 2 to 3 days a week, reflecting hybrid work schedules. Two-thirds of Caltrain riders have access to a car, while 37% of Caltrain riders are considered low-income.

Read More →
A VIA bus
Busby StaffMay 1, 2026

San Antonio's VIA Launches Next Round of Bus Improvements

The changes are designed to reduce overall travel time, shorten wait times, and get customers to their destinations more quickly.

Read More →
A graphic of a map showing a "Snapshot of Systemwide Vulnerabilities (projected)."
Managementby News/Media ReleaseMay 1, 2026

MBTA Unveils First Systemwide Climate Resilience Roadmap

The plan outlines strategies to protect transit infrastructure from extreme weather, prioritize critical investments, and improve system reliability as climate risks intensify.

Read More →
Ad Loading...

People Movement: DART Names Interim Chief, Clean Energy Taps New President/CEO

In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at MCTS, Voith, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.

Read More →
A person working on a bus
ManagementMay 1, 2026

Data-Driven Maintenance: Focusing Effort Where It Matters Most

Advances in data and analytics are giving transit agencies new opportunities to refine maintenance practices, improve efficiency and make more informed decisions about asset performance.

Read More →
transit tracker connectpoint
Sponsoredby Alex RomanMay 1, 2026

Connectpoint Expands Digital Signage Strategy with LED Push

Connectpoint is enhancing its digital signage strategy by integrating LED technology into its services.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
frontrunner bus
SponsoredMay 1, 2026

ADA Compliant Transit: Easier, More Dignified Travel for Every Passenger

Today’s riders—and the communities you serve—expect more from public transit. While ADA compliance is required, leading transit agencies know that true accessibility also means delivering dignity, efficiency, and a better rider experience. This whitepaper reveals why forward thinking agencies nationwide choose the Low Floor Frontrunner as their first choice for ADA compliant vehicles—setting a new standard with passenger first design, faster boarding, improved safety, and unmatched operational performance.

Read More →