Even after a Mobility Hub is defined, it still might beg the question of why.  What about this terminology makes it different from transportation oriented development?

In my opinion, the term mobility hub implies that the primary focus is moving people. These centers should be about smooth transitioning between all transportation modes: walking, biking, cars,  and transit.

(Source: Smart Moves 3.0 MARC)

The resurgence of interest in rail, the onset of autonomous vehicles, and the political call to upscale our infrastructure, all create an environment where we have to ask- In this new age of transportation, how can we be proactive? How can we make sure that human scale is emphasized? How can we learn from the mistakes we made with automobiles?

Transportation Oriented Development, despite having transportation in the name, relates primarily to the development that takes place around transportation modes. It includes important factors such as housing, retail, services, and jobs centers. These are key in creating housing density and job density that will continuously support the associated transit.

(Source: metrolinx.com)

These features should undoubtedly be considered in the short and long range goals of mobility hubs. Value capture will be key in funding these mobility hubs.

However,  development can take place around any form of transportation, as we see in auto oriented  developments across the United States.

Mobility Hubs are about creating a system that is easier, more pleasant, smooth, and efficient: to move more people in a more efficient manner; to give people choice and freedom of movement; to integrate systems that will replenish people’s pockets, time, and the environment.

(Source: Norreport Transit Station, Denmark)