Development of Transit-Oriented Cities Along Metro and Ring Road 3: A Strategic Vision

Recently, the People's Committee of Ho Chi Minh City decided to implement a plan to develop 11 TOD (Transit-Oriented Development) projects along the metro lines and Ring Road 3. These locations will be situated along key areas of Metro Line 1, Metro Line 2, and Ring Road 3. This long-term strategy aims to promote sustainable development for Ho Chi Minh City, solve traffic issues, and improve the quality of life for urban residents.

TOD Model: A Solution for Sustainable Development

The TOD model is an urban planning approach that focuses on developing areas around public transportation hubs, particularly metro stations. The goal of TOD is to create sustainable, accessible communities while reducing reliance on private vehicles, easing traffic congestion, saving energy, and reducing carbon emissions.

David Jackson, CEO of Avison Young Vietnam, stated that if implemented effectively, the TOD model could transform the city's landscape, reduce barriers to public transportation use, and create more livable communities. He emphasized that this would help achieve the sustainable development goals of the real estate sector by saving energy, reducing emissions, and promoting healthier lifestyles.

Selected Locations

According to the plan, 11 locations along Metro Line 1 (Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien), Metro Line 2 (Ben Thanh - Tham Luong), and Ring Road 3 will be developed into multi-functional transit-oriented cities. These areas will include residential, office, commercial, and public facilities. Notably, the Phuoc Long station area (in Thu Duc City) along Metro Line 1 will be a key development point, covering more than 160 hectares. In addition to Metro Line 1, areas along Metro Line 2 and Ring Road 3, such as Tay Thanh, Tan Binh, and Xuan Thoi Thinh, will also play important roles in this urban development plan.

These areas will be planned as integrated urban zones, combining residential, office, commercial, and public spaces, all connected to modern transportation systems.

Learning from International Success Stories

To successfully implement the TOD model, many experts have drawn lessons from successful examples in major cities worldwide. Singapore is a prime example of TOD implementation. The city-state has successfully developed several satellite cities around the city center by integrating urban transportation development with urban space planning, linking these satellite cities with industrial areas and the city center through a railway network. In Singapore's TOD model, all public facilities are easily accessible within walking distance, reducing the need for residents to travel far for daily activities. Additionally, Singapore has incorporated affordable social housing in well-connected TOD areas.

In Canada, particularly in Vancouver, TOD has been widely applied with large-scale mixed-use development projects. These projects combine residential, retail, office, and public spaces, forming high-density urban clusters that are well-connected to public transportation hubs, providing millions of new residents with housing each year.

Challenges and Solutions

Although TOD offers numerous benefits, implementing it in Ho Chi Minh City faces several challenges. Major issues include the incomplete public transportation infrastructure and the need for detailed and efficient land clearance and resettlement planning. Experts suggest that for successful TOD implementation, a long-term strategic plan should be in place, with a focus on cooperation between local governments and real estate developers, as well as improving transportation connections from the city center to the suburbs.

Moreover, expanding transportation networks in suburban areas and building satellite cities will help reduce the burden on the city center and promote sustainable development. The development costs in suburban areas are generally lower, which helps developers offer more affordable housing, attracting further investment. However, achieving these goals requires coordinated planning and effective execution. Accurate revenue forecasting, along with long-term commitments from infrastructure investors, technology providers, and operators, is also necessary.

Collaborative Effort and Long-Term Planning

For TOD to succeed, Ho Chi Minh City must effectively coordinate all stakeholders, with collaboration being key from local governments to regional authorities. A clear strategic vision and long-term planning are essential, and all parties involved must maintain consistency to ensure efficient implementation from planning to execution. The key to success lies in building trust and cooperation among stakeholders, alongside ensuring stable funding sources and long-term commitments.

Conclusion

The advancement of TOD in Ho Chi Minh City will help create a more modern, convenient, and sustainable urban system. Despite the challenges, if international best practices are incorporated and resources and policies are effectively integrated, this goal will become achievable. If successful, this plan will provide substantial economic and social value, laying a solid foundation for future urban development.