Summary of The Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP)

The Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable and equitable transportation worldwide. Founded in 1985, ITDP focuses on developing bus rapid transit (BRT) systems, encouraging biking and walking, and assisting private bus operators.

Key Areas of Operation

Public Transport: ITDP plays a vital role in designing and consulting on BRT programs in cities worldwide. The organization has established the BRT Standard, a guide and rating system that assesses the quality of BRT systems.

Cycling and Walking: ITDP prioritizes human-powered transportation by promoting car-free days, bike share programs, and safe streets for pedestrians and cyclists. The organization has published the Bike-Share Planning Guide to support the implementation of bike sharing systems.

Sustainable Urban Development: ITDP integrates transportation with urban design to create livable spaces. The organization promotes transit-oriented development (TOD) by designing environments for cycling and walking, encouraging pedestrian-friendly real estate development, and implementing policies that enhance public spaces.

International Sustainable Transport Policy: ITDP participates in international initiatives to advance sustainable transport. Through its partnership with SLoCaT, the organization secured a $175 billion commitment to support sustainable transport from multilateral development banks. ITDP also contributed to a Global High Shift Scenario report, demonstrating the benefits of shifting transportation funding to support alternatives to driving.

Interesting Facts

  • ITDP was instrumental in the establishment of Bogotá's TransMilenio BRT system, which became a model for BRT development worldwide.
  • The organization has supported local bicycle industries in developing countries, including Haiti, Nicaragua, and South Africa.
  • ITDP's advocacy efforts influenced the World Bank to include the economic impacts on non-motorized road users in its transport project appraisals.
  • In 2013, ITDP published "The TOD Standard," a comprehensive guide for implementing transit-oriented development.
  • The organization played a role in the revitalization of Mexico City's Historic Center, promoting pedestrian and transit-oriented development.