Frequently Asked Questions
1. What transit modes are included?
The TOD Database includes heavy rail, light rail, cable cars, streetcars, some BRT, some ferry ports (if operated by a transit agency or state DOT that serves commuter needs), aerial trams and funiculars.
2. Which BRT stations are included in the TOD Database?
Bus Rapid Transit lines that have a dedicated right-of-way for the majority of the route are included. Other BRT technologies also need to be present in the project description, such as low floor buses and center aisle boardings.
3. Why does the TOD Database not include local data sets? Why is station-level data, like ridership, not available?
CTOD has received many excellent suggestions for local, regional, and state datasets. At this time the TOD Database includes datasets that are available nationally. Discussion is ongoing regarding the potential to add more localized data, as well as some additional national datasets.
4. Where can I read more about each data set?
When you download data, the Excel Spreadsheet/Word Document has a footnote at the bottom indicating the data source and tables used in the query.
5. Can you select multiple data fields for a single geography?
Yes, you are able to do so, but we do not recommend mixing data sets. This is because the data in the TOD Database is always aggregated from the smallest geography possible. For example, Census 2000 SF1 is aggregated from Census Blocks, and Census 2000 SF3 is aggregated from Census Block Groups so if you download transit zone data on population and households from both tables, the results will differ. It would be incorrect to divide a transit buffer report with SF3 variables by a report with SF1 variables. In order to select from multiple data sets, go to custom report and click on the box next to the data sets and the fields (see Chapter 7 of the User Guide for instructions). We suggest citing each dataset as appropriate.
6. Are there plans to add OnTheMap data? How do I do a labor shed analysis?
It's already in there. OnTheMap is the same as LED data. We use a different mapping interface than you are accustomed to, but the data is the same.