Pace offers complementary in-house technical review under its Design Review Assistance For Transit (D.R.A.F.T.) program. Developers and designers can participate in the program voluntarily, though municipalities may require Pace review as a part of local development review. These reviews are conducted by Pace’s Transportation Engineer and are designed to promote the incorporation of public transportation features in suburban developments. The provision of transit service also is analyzed during this plan review process.
Why should I participate in the D.R.A.F.T. program?
Pace’s D.R.A.F.T. program is intended to help coordinate the efforts of private development, municipal services, local infrastructure and bus transit services and facilities. Through the program, developers can work directly with Pace to accommodate characteristics of transit-supportive development that enhance the vibrancy of the development and improve access to adjacent communities within the region. This is encouraged for any project that might in any way impact Pace services and infrastructure, including projects that include on-site Pace facilities, abut corridors served by Pace, or significantly alter the potential for a local ridership market.
How do I participate?
If you have a development project that could impact existing bus services or benefit from better coordination with Pace, you can download a D.R.A.F.T. program application here, or contact the Pace Transportation Engineer. The Engineer is in charge of administering the D.R.A.F.T. program and coordinating with other Pace staff as needed to properly assess the impacts of a development project.
What information do I need to provide?
Each project is unique, but generally, participants will be asked to provide design plans similar to what municipalities require for review by zoning, fire and public works staff. The intent of the D.R.A.F.T. program is not to impose undue burdens on developers and designers, but rather to integrate Pace review in a manner that is as seamless and unobtrusive as possible.
How long does the process take?
The D.R.A.F.T. process can vary depending on the complexity and scale of the project. However, Pace strives to complete review with the applicant within 2-4 weeks of submittal. Factors that impact the length of the review process include:
- The scale of the portion of the proposed project that impacts transit facilities and services
- The nature of existing transit service on and around the proposed project site
- The planned future service characteristics on and around the proposed project site
- The relationship between on-site transit facilities and other characteristics of the project
- The magnitude of impacts the proposed project may have on existing or planned services and facilities (i.e. significant increases in population or traffic)
Download Pace's D.R.A.F.T. program application or contact Pace's Transportation Engineer below:
