Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is often cited as one of the most effective ways of promoting Smart Growth. TOD is compact, pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use development within a short distance of a transit stop. When properly designed, TODs can promote multiple transportation options and help reduce automobile dependency. Developments typically must meet a number of criteria related to density, parking, and design to be considered a TOD. The projects highlighted here are characterized as Development Near Transit rather than TODs because they sometimes do not meet all of the criteria typically associated with TOD. However, these developments are notable for their proximity to transit and the transit- and pedestrian-friendly features they include.

The Smart Growth Project Database is an application that tracks a variety of noteworthy development projects throughout the Greater Philadelphia Region. The database focuses on three types of Smart Growth projects: development near transit, traditional neighborhood development (TND), and conservation subdivisions. These types of development were selected because they often embody several of the core principles of Smart Growth: Providing a mix of land uses, Creating a range of housing options, Preserving open space, farmland, and critical environmental areas, Creating walkable neighborhoods, and Providing a variety of transportation choices. This database is meant to serve as a quick and convenient reference tool for planners, local officials, and citizens who are interested in Smart Growth. It includes projects that are proposed, in progress, and complete. The details of proposed developments are subject to change and projects will be updated and added as new information becomes available. The inclusion of any particular project within this application does not serve as an endorsement by DVRPC or its partner agencies. Furthermore, this application focuses on recent developments because they are the most relevant to today's real estate and economic climate.