1. COH needs to create alternative financing mechanisms (TIRZ, Management Districts, improve developer participation agreements, etc…) to help cover cost of public infrastructure within corridors.
a. This would incentivize cohesive development and replacement of infrastructure in areas of high growth.
b. Creates a greater amount of local control which allows the property owners in the area to be more responsive to their areas needs.
c. Allows for greater mix of diversity to occur along corridors while preserving the unique characteristics of Houston’s various business districts and neighborhoods.

2. COH needs to begin marketing Houston’s Transit system and our new rules for development created by the Urban Corridors ordinance to Mixed Use/TOD development companies across the US.
a. Houston has the least amount of regulation and the least amount of barriers to development in US.
b. New standard creates a quick permitting time and therefore a quicker return on private investment from the market.
c. COH has created a level playing field so all types of development can be compete fairly in the market (transit corridors). The best possible design and use can be achieved through private investment testing their ideas on consumers in the market place.
With the national economy’s current condition and the desire by some consumers to live in a more dense urban environment, Houston should be actively trying to attract developers to come test their ideas in our more affordable and competitive market.
3. It remains unacceptable that the MTA (METRO) would be allowed to build 4’ sidewalks when replacing sidewalks within the corridors. The Urban Corridors ordinance through its efforts to increase pedestrian mobility has created a standard for 6’ sidewalks inside the corridors. The COH has also changed its existing sidewalk standards to 5’ throughout the rest of the city. Why can’t the MTA act responsibly and adhere to the new standards set by the ordinance within the corridors? It would be beneficial to all Houstonians if METRO would act in good faith and respond positively to the new standards set by the City of Houston and the Urban Corridors Ordinance.