Feasibility study of realizing the TOD development model in the urban region of Sari with future studies approach

In Iran, specifically in Sari, neglecting the mutual relationship between public transportation and urban development has led to uneven development. The main objective of this study is to assess the possibility of implementing the TOD development model in Sari with future studies approach. This study uses a quantitative method to achieve its goal. Documentary, library, and field study methods were used to collect data. The data collection tool in this study was a questionnaire distributed among 50 experts in urban and transportation planning using cluster sampling. Hierarchical analysis, statistical analysis, and SWOT techniques were used to analyze the data. Initially, four bus stations on Keshavarz Boulevard, Pasdaran Boulevard, Azadi Boulevard, and Imam Reza Boulevard in Sari were selected. Based on public transportation-based development criteria, these four stations were compared, and using the AHP method, the Imam Reza Boulevard bus station was selected as the best station for public transportation-based development. Then, a SWOT analysis was conducted for it and the scenarios were developed based on a qualitative futures studies approach. The positive aspects of this station include suitable residential density, diverse bus stations within an 800-meter range, and the potential for increased density. Its weaknesses include a lack of parking around the station, a lack of green space, and the absence of pedestrian and vehicular separation. Its most important strategies include smartening the public transportation system, appropriate distribution and deployment of land uses, and improving the quality of public transportation.