Summit Day Schedule
The Summit will be held in the College Center Building. The day's schedule with times and rooms are listed below.
*This page is best viewed in landscape mode if using a mobile device.*
|
8:00am
|
Registration
|
2FL, Lobby
|
|---|---|---|
|
8:00am
|
Breakfast
|
2FL, Cafe A
|
|
8:00am
|
Exhibitors Tables & Networking
|
2FL, Lobby-Corridors-Cafes
|
|
9:00am
| Welcome Remarks & Keynote Speakers
9:10am Keynote Speaker - Beth Osborne, Director of Transportation for America
Beth is the Director of Transportation for America and has been at the organization since 2014. She previously served in the U.S. Department of Transportation, where she started as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy in 2009 before being elevated to Acting Assistant Secretary in 2013. At DOT, Beth managed the TIGER Discretionary Grant program (now known as RAISE), the Secretary’s livability initiative as well as the development and implementation of legislation affecting the national surface transportation program. Before joining DOT, Beth worked for Sen. Tom Carper (DE) as an advisor for transportation, trade and labor policy; as the policy director for Smart Growth America; and as legislative director for environmental policy at the Southern Governors’ Association. She began her career in Washington, DC, in the House of Representatives working as a legislative assistant for Rep. Ron Klink (PA-04) and as legislative director for Rep. Brian Baird (WA-03). Beth grew up in New Orleans, a great place to bike and walk.
9:40am Keynote Speaker - Barkha Patel, Director of Infrastructure, City of Jersey City
Barkha R. Patel is the Director of Infrastructure for the City of Jersey City, NJ, one of the most densely-populated, transit-rich, and ethnically diverse cities in the US. She oversees the planning, design, and implementation of the City’s critical public infrastructure including all municipal streets, transit, parks, public spaces, buildings, and other public facilities. She serves as a senior advisor to the Mayor and leads the City’s Architecture, Engineering, Transportation, Sustainability, and Innovation agencies. As a public official and advocate, Barkha’s work is rooted in a commitment to justice, equity and smart growth. She is responsible for the development and implementation of many of Jersey City’s most transformational initiatives including the City’s first Vision Zero and Climate Action plans, first on-demand microtransit system, a robust network of protected bikeways and safe streets, a renowned plaza program, innovative parks and public spaces, and a number of award-winning placemaking projects. As her portfolio expands, she is currently exploring ways to infuse joy and dignity into the public realm through meaningful infrastructure improvements. Barkha previously served as Jersey City’s Deputy City Manager and Director of Transportation, and earned a Master’s Degree in City and Regional Planning from the Bloustein School at Rutgers University. Social Media: |
2FL, Main Room
|
|
10:10am
|
Coffee / Tea & Networking
|
2FL, Main Room
|
|
10:20am
| Breakout Session 1
1FL, Terrace | Safe Routes Academy: Where the Sidewalk Ends - Exploring Safe Street Design
In this session participants will delve into the world of safe street design, focusing on proven safety countermeasures, complete streets concepts, and design resources for school zones. Through interactive discussions, attendees will gain an understanding of which infrastructure solutions make streets safer for people walking and bicycling. From improving pedestrian and bicyclist safety to enhancing connectivity, this session will equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to transform their streets into more inclusive spaces that prioritize safety and accessibility for all ages and abilities, especially children. Panelists: William Riviere (moderator) - Principal Planner and Safe Routes to School Coordinator - NJDOT Hannah Younes, PhD. - Post Doctoral Research Associate - Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy James Sinclair - Senior Research Specialist - Voorhees Transportation Center
1FL, 100-102 | Micromobility & Me: An Interactive Discussion on Low-Speed Electric Travel in New Jersey
This interactive session provides an overview of new micromobility resources for New Jersey out of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Resource Center as well as forum for discussing how to expand safe, equitable e-bike and e-scooter use across the state. This session will explore emerging research and resources related to micromobility classification, regulation, and safety with a focus on increasing understanding of how low-speed e-devices fit into the transportation landscape. The session will also highlight education needs and how accommodating bicycling and micromobility via protected bicycle lanes can reduce speeding and improve safety for all roadway users. Participants will share their insights about micromobility use in their communities and learn about best practices for safe, lawful, and courteous riding. Panelists: Gregory Woltman - Research Project Coordinator - Voorhees Transportation Center Sam Rosenthal - Research Project Coordinator - Voorhees Transportation Center Corey Hannigan - Active Transportation Program Manager - Tri-State Transportation Campaign
3FL, Corral Room | Vision Zero and Local Safety Action Plans Across the State
The new federal funding has brought new opportunities for safer and more inclusive streets. Hear from representatives from our three MPO’s, (Metropolitan Planning Organizations) how they are helping counties and municipalities with planning and funding to make NJ’s streets safer for all users and a safer place to bike and walk. Panelists: Lisa Serieyssol (moderator) - Princeton Pedestrian & Bicycle Advisory Committee Kevin S. Murphy - Manager, Office of Safe Streets - DVRPC Jeff Perlman - Senior Director of Planning - NJTPA Jennifer Marandino - Executive Director - SJTPO
3FL, Gallery 334 | Footprints & Handlebars: My Journey with Active Transport in Auckland, New Zealand
Journeying back home to New Jersey from the vibrant landscapes of Aotearoa New Zealand, I bring with me a treasure trove of experiences in active modes projects. As a passionate advocate and practitioner, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to various active modes initiatives in my role at Auckland Transport. In this presentation, I’ll share my personal odyssey—pedaling the streets of Auckland on my e-trike Trinity, co-designing open streets with local communities, platforming gendered mobility, and navigating the intricacies of sustainable mobility and behavior change. Presenter: Tiffany Robinson - Principal Planner - NV5 | |
|
11:20am
|
Coffee / Tea & Networking
|
2FL, Main Room
|
|
11:30am
| Breakout Session 2
1FL, Terrace | Safe Routes Academy: Talk the Walk - Putting Your Vision into a Plan
In this session, participants will learn how to hone their vision and translate it into a plan of action to improve walking and bicycling environments. The session will provide practical guidance on prioritizing actions and developing a plan that aligns with community goals. Engaging in hands-on exercises and collaborative discussions, participants will explore how to effectively document concerns and prioritize solutions. By the end of the session, participants will better understand how to take meaningful steps towards implementing complete streets and safe routes to school improvements. Panelists: William Riviere (moderator) - Principal Planner and Safe Routes to School Coordinator - NJDOT Sean Meehan - Research Project Manager - Voorhees Transportation Center Group Exercises, Complete Streets Hands-On Activity, Mapping at Tables
1FL, 100-102 | Don’t Wait, Demonstrate! Safety Treatments to Try Before You Buy
Increasingly, municipal decision makers are interested in creating safer and more multimodal streets to accommodate users of all ages and abilities. However, with limited resources, project implementation can be challenging. Enter Demonstration Projects. These innovative approaches to project delivery can be installed quickly using temporary, low-cost materials such as paint or planters and allow municipalities and the community to test and experience improvements before more significant capital investments. This session will cover how to plan and install Demonstration Projects, how to engage your community before, during, and after installation, and how to access materials to support implementation. We’ll also have an interactive roundtable session for groups to design and share their own location-specific Demonstration Project! Panelists: Peter Kremer (moderator) - Senior Associate - Michael Baker Int'l Patrick Farley - Program Director - Cross County Connection TMA Jasmine Grossman - Principal Planner - NJTPA Lisa Lee - Director of Sustainability Programs - EZ Ride Yahayra S. Mejorada - Constituent Affairs Coordinator - Town of Dover Courtenay D. Mercer - Principal - Mercer Planning Associates Christopher Townley - Transportation Planning Specialist - Greater Mercer TMA
2FL, Cafe C | Accessibility and Safety: Does Accessibility Make You Safer?
The goal of this session is to outline why and how active transportation advocates can and should work with advocates for people with disabilities. We will review the Access Board regulations for multi-use paths, parks and greenways as these can provide significant opportunities for riding, rolling and walking. We will provide an overview of ways that New Jersey is addressing accessibility including a statewide initiative to improve access to nature; to showcase accessible playgrounds; and review the challenges and opportunities for accessible trail development. Disability and active transportation advocates have a shared goal of improving safe travel for all users. The ADA provides a valuable tool for pushing necessary active transportation infrastructure improvements. Session attendees will learn some basic steps that can continue to create safe, accessible places in New Jersey. Panelists: Kate Kraft (moderator) - Board Member - New Jersey Bike & Walk Coalition, Rails to Trails Conservancy Juliet Shoultz - Transportation Systems Engineer/Accessibility Specialist - U.S. Access Board Ted Green, PE - Instructor - Rutgers Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation (CAIT) Sean Kane Holland - Access Nature Disability Advocate - Pinelands Preservation Alliance
3FL, Corral Room | The Greenway and Beyond – Connecting Communities in North Jersey
The Greenway (formerly the Essex Hudson Greenway), acquired recently by the state to become NJ’s newest state park, will be a major corridor connecting communities and a catalyst for development of a trail network across the region. Hear from speakers on the current state of the Greenway and future plans, lessons from this rail to trail conversion and the transaction process to purchase right of ways and connecting to the developing trail network in Jersey City and beyond. Panelists: Debra Kagan (moderator) - Executive Director - New Jersey Bike & Walk Coalition Dene Lee - Land Project Director - Open Space Institute Maggie McCann - Administrator, Office of Urban State Parks & Initiatives - NJDEP Lyndsey Scofield - Senior Transportation Planner - Department of Infrastructure, City of Jersey City | |
|
12:30pm
|
Lunch & Networking
|
2FL, Main Room
|
|
1:00pm
| Keynote Speaker
Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection
Governor Philip D. Murphy appointed Shawn M. LaTourette in June 2021 as New Jersey's Commissioner of Environmental Protection. Commissioner LaTourette is responsible for formulating statewide environmental policy while directing programs that protect public health and ensure the quality of New Jersey's air, land, water, and natural and historic resources. Commissioner LaTourette was born and raised in New Jersey. Commissioner LaTourette graduated magna cum laude from Rutgers University and earned his law degree summa cum laude from Rutgers Law School. The Commissioner has vast experience and a deep commitment to equity and protecting vulnerable communities while facilitating public infrastructure development and advocating for environmental protection. |
2FL, Main Room
|
|
1:30pm
|
Awards Ceremony & Silent Auction Winner
|
2FL, Main Room
|
|
1:45pm
|
Coffee / Tea & Networking
|
2FL, Main Room
|
|
2:00pm
| Breakout Session 3
1FL, Terrace | Safe Routes Academy: Build Better Streets - How to Work with Your Municipality
In this session, local advocates will share insights and lessons learned in their efforts to cultivate local support and advocate for active transportation and safe environments for walking and biking. Participants will gain practical strategies for engaging with municipal and school officials, building coalitions, and effectively communicating the benefits of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. Through real-world examples and interactive discussions, attendees will learn how to mobilize community members and influence decision-makers to prioritize and invest in safer, more walkable, and bikeable communities. Panelists: William Riviere (moderator) - Principal Planner and Safe Routes to School Coordinator - NJDOT Sean Meehan - Research Project Manager - Voorhees Transportation Center Candace Faust - Eatontown Council Member Krista Weaver - Council President - Borough of Hopewell Kathleen Ebert - Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Coordinator at Greater Mercer TMA
1FL, 100-102 | Build Engagement & Advocacy through Fun Activities
Build support for safe streets and active transportation by attracting like minded people to the cause through fun, engaging activities. Leaders of these bike themed activities share how they engage community members with FUN and leverage their support into advocacy for local change. Activities like Girls In Gear, Light Up Rides, Ward Tours, Bike Bus rides to school and The Street Project film review, attract different audiences and build your base. Panelists: Wills Kinsley (moderator) - Director of Operations - Trenton Cycling Revolution Gabrielle Rossi - Founder - Girls In Gear Tony Borelli - Vice President - Bike JC, Light Up Rides & Ward Tour Jessica Tillyer - Co-Founder - Montclair Bike Bus Paul Mickiewicz - Program Manager, New Jersey Bike & Walk Coalition
3FL, Corral Room | Camden to the Cape: Connecting South Jersey Through Trails
Multiple agencies in South Jersey are working together to create a continuous, 100+ mile long walking and bicycling trail between the Ben Franklin Bridge in Camden to Cape May. Hear from project representatives about the latest updates on this ambitious vision to create a trail that will connect thousands of acres of open space and parks, 33 municipalities, three counties, two MPOs, and many downtown business districts. To date, about 1/3 of the total trail has been built, $30 million in construction funding has been dedicated to build segments of the Camden County LINK, and SJTPO has completed feasibility study efforts on the Atlantic and Cape May County portions of the trail. Panelists: Matt Ludwig, PE, AICP (moderator) - Principal Engineer & Planner - NV5 Jennifer Marandino - Executive Director - SJTPO Shawn Megill Legendre - Manager, Regional Trails Program - DVRPC
3FL, Gallery 334 | Equitable Mobility
Moving freely is important despite one's ability. In some communities, the built environment does not provide the same level of mobility options and access to greenspace in comparison to other communities. The same level of investment to improve the built environment is not properly shared among communities and many communities have experienced disinvestment, which affects mobility. How communities and advocates have been working to create equitable mobility will be explored. Panelists: Jacque Howard - Founder, Trenton 365 Titania Markland - Transportation Outreach Coordinator - Clean Air Council Hannah Younes, PhD. - Post Doctoral Research Associate - Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy | |
|
3:00pm
|
Coffee / Tea & Networking
|
2FL, Main Room
|
|
3:15pm
| Breakout Session 4
1FL, Terrace | Safe Routes Academy: Fund Your Project - Tips and Strategies for Successful Grant Applications
In this session, participants will gain insights into the various funding opportunities available to support bicycle and pedestrian improvements in New Jersey. The session will focus on state and federal grants, providing tips and strategies for crafting successful grant applications. Attendees will learn about finding grant opportunities, application processes, and best practices for developing a compelling proposal. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to access funding, understand the level of effort for different grant applications, and match projects to appropriate grant sources. Panelists: William Riviere (moderator) - Principal Planner and Safe Routes to School Coordinator - NJDOT Leigh Ann Von Hagen, P.P., AICP - Managing Director & Adjunct Professor - Voorhees Transportation Center, Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy Jon Dugan - Research Project Coordinator - Voorhees Transportation Center
1FL, 100-102 | Exploring Successful State Multi-use Trail Programs Across the Country
Tom will share some of the most effective multi-use trail programs from other states in the northeast and nationally. His 20 examples all share some common features which he will expand on further. These include legislative, policy, and administrative actions that have furthered trail development and active transportation. Presenter: Tom Sexton - Northeast Regional Director - Rails to Trails Conservancy
3FL, Corral Room | Vision Zero in Hoboken and Jersey City – A Candid Conversation
The Cities of Hoboken and Jersey City have experienced success in their Vision Zero programs. Join Transportation Directors Ryan Sharp and Mike Manzella in a candid conversation about lessons learned, unique opportunities and pressing challenges, and the future of Vision Zero in their Cities, Hudson County, New Jersey, and beyond. Moderated by Mike Dannemiller, Supervising Engineer, Middlesex County Office of Planning. Panelists: Mike Dannemiller, PE (moderator) - Supervising Engineer - Middlesex County Office of Planning Ryan Sharp, P.P., AICP - Director, Transportation and Parking - City of Hoboken Mike Manzella, AICP - Director of Transportation Planning - City of Jersey City
3FL, Gallery 334 | Conducting Bike & Walk Audits with AARP
In too many communities, people can’t safely walk or bike to where they need or want to go due to a lack sidewalks, crosswalks or other safety features that make streets safe for pedestrians and drivers. Learn how to assess and report on the safety and walkability/bikeability of a street, intersection or neighborhood — and inspire needed change. A walk audit is a simple activity in which an individual or a team observes and evaluates the walkability of a location to document how and if pedestrians can safely travel along a street, navigate an intersection and get from point A to B, C and so on. The bicycling audit tool kit provides a step-by-step approach to observing and documenting the safe or unsafe bikeability of a location. The results of a community bike audit can educate local decision-makers and provide them with the needed data, solutions and strategies for achieving change. Anyone can do an audit. In fact, the best audits are done by people with a range of perspectives and mobility needs. This session will introduce you to the tools offered by AARP to conduct these audits. Learn how to plan, execute and share the results of an audit in your neighborhood or community. Understand what tools are supplied and how to take your results to those who can make the desired changes happen. Presenter: Marty Siederer - AARP New Jersey Speakers Bureau | |
|
4:15pm
|
End of Summit
| |
Summit Program
Read more details about the sessions below.
Keynote Speakers
The Summit will feature three keynote speakers.
Beth is the Director of Transportation for America and has been at the organization since 2014. She previously served in the U.S. Department of Transportation, where she started as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy in 2009 before being elevated to Acting Assistant Secretary in 2013. At DOT, Beth managed the TIGER Discretionary Grant program (now known as RAISE), the Secretary’s livability initiative as well as the development and implementation of legislation affecting the national surface transportation program. Before joining DOT, Beth worked for Sen. Tom Carper (DE) as an advisor for transportation, trade and labor policy; as the policy director for Smart Growth America; and as legislative director for environmental policy at the Southern Governors’ Association. She began her career in Washington, DC, in the House of Representatives working as a legislative assistant for Rep. Ron Klink (PA-04) and as legislative director for Rep. Brian Baird (WA-03). Beth grew up in New Orleans, a great place to bike and walk.
Barkha R. Patel is the Director of Infrastructure for the City of Jersey City, NJ, one of the most densely-populated, transit-rich, and ethnically diverse cities in the US. She oversees the planning, design, and implementation of the City’s critical public infrastructure including all municipal streets, transit, parks, public spaces, buildings, and other public facilities. She serves as a senior advisor to the Mayor and leads the City’s Architecture, Engineering, Transportation, Sustainability, and Innovation agencies.
As a public official and advocate, Barkha’s work is rooted in a commitment to justice, equity and smart growth. She is responsible for the development and implementation of many of Jersey City’s most transformational initiatives including the City’s first Vision Zero and Climate Action plans, first on-demand microtransit system, a robust network of protected bikeways and safe streets, a renowned plaza program, innovative parks and public spaces, and a number of award-winning placemaking projects. As her portfolio expands, she is currently exploring ways to infuse joy and dignity into the public realm through meaningful infrastructure improvements.
Barkha previously served as Jersey City’s Deputy City Manager and Director of Transportation, and earned a Master’s Degree in City and Regional Planning from the Bloustein School at Rutgers University.
Social Media:
Governor Philip D. Murphy appointed Shawn M. LaTourette in June 2021 as New Jersey's Commissioner of Environmental Protection. Commissioner LaTourette is responsible for formulating statewide environmental policy while directing programs that protect public health and ensure the quality of New Jersey's air, land, water, and natural and historic resources.
Commissioner LaTourette was born and raised in New Jersey. Commissioner LaTourette graduated magna cum laude from Rutgers University and earned his law degree summa cum laude from Rutgers Law School. The Commissioner has vast experience and a deep commitment to equity and protecting vulnerable communities while facilitating public infrastructure development and advocating for environmental protection.
NJ Safe Routes Academy Sessions
The NJ Safe Routes Academy, sponsored by the NJ Department of Transportation, focuses on sessions that allow participants to make their communities more walk- and bike-friendly for all users of all abilities. This year the Academy will be held in-person during the NJ Bike & Walk Summit on Saturday, May 18th, at Middlesex College and College Center, Edison NJ. The Safe Routes Academy is designed for parents, teachers, students, municipal leaders, local volunteers, and anyone else interested in improving conditions for walking and bicycling. Learn about the best practices and resources that you can use to increase safety and accessibility in your community.
In this session participants will delve into the world of safe street design, focusing on proven safety countermeasures, complete streets concepts, and design resources for school zones. Through interactive discussions, attendees will gain an understanding of which infrastructure solutions make streets safer for people walking and bicycling. From improving pedestrian and bicyclist safety to enhancing connectivity, this session will equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to transform their streets into more inclusive spaces that prioritize safety and accessibility for all ages and abilities, especially children.
In this session, participants will learn how to hone their vision and translate it into a plan of action to improve walking and bicycling environments. The session will provide practical guidance on prioritizing actions and developing a plan that aligns with community goals. Engaging in hands-on exercises and collaborative discussions, participants will explore how to effectively document concerns and prioritize solutions. By the end of the session, participants will better understand how to take meaningful steps towards implementing complete streets and safe routes to school improvements.
In this session, local advocates will share insights and lessons learned in their efforts to cultivate local support and advocate for active transportation and safe environments for walking and biking. Participants will gain practical strategies for engaging with municipal and school officials, building coalitions, and effectively communicating the benefits of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. Through real-world examples and interactive discussions, attendees will learn how to mobilize community members and influence decision-makers to prioritize and invest in safer, more walkable, and bikeable communities.
In this session, participants will gain insights into the various funding opportunities available to support bicycle and pedestrian improvements in New Jersey. The session will focus on state and federal grants, providing tips and strategies for crafting successful grant applications. Attendees will learn about finding grant opportunities, application processes, and best practices for developing a compelling proposal. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to access funding, understand the level of effort for different grant applications, and match projects to appropriate grant sources.
Build Engagement & Advocacy through Fun Activities
Build support for safe streets and active transportation by attracting like minded people to the cause through fun, engaging activities. Leaders of these bike themed activities share how they engage community members with FUN and leverage their support into advocacy for local change. Activities like Girls In Gear, Light Up Rides, Ward Tours, Bike Bus rides to school and The Street Project film review, attract different audiences and build your base.
Conducting Bike & Walk Audits with AARP
In too many communities, people can’t safely walk or bike to where they need or want to go due to a lack sidewalks, crosswalks or other safety features that make streets safe for pedestrians and drivers. Learn how to assess and report on the safety and walkability/bikeability of a street, intersection or neighborhood — and inspire needed change. A walk audit is a simple activity in which an individual or a team observes and evaluates the walkability of a location to document how and if pedestrians can safely travel along a street, navigate an intersection and get from point A to B, C and so on. The bicycling audit tool kit provides a step-by-step approach to observing and documenting the safe or unsafe bikeability of a location. The results of a community bike audit can educate local decision-makers and provide them with the needed data, solutions and strategies for achieving change. Anyone can do an audit. In fact, the best audits are done by people with a range of perspectives and mobility needs. This session will introduce you to the tools offered by AARP to conduct these audits. Learn how to plan, execute and share the results of an audit in your neighborhood or community. Understand what tools are supplied and how to take your results to those who can make the desired changes happen.
Footprints and Handlebars: My Journey with Active Transport in Auckland, New Zealand
Journeying back home to New Jersey from the vibrant landscapes of Aotearoa New Zealand, I bring with me a treasure trove of experiences in active modes projects. As a passionate advocate and practitioner, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to various active modes initiatives in my role at Auckland Transport. In this presentation, I’ll share my personal odyssey—pedaling the streets of Auckland on my e-trike Trinity, co-designing open streets with local communities, platforming gendered mobility, and navigating the intricacies of sustainable mobility and behavior change.
Micromobility and Me: An Interactive Discussion on Low-Speed Electric Travel in New Jersey
This interactive session provides an overview of new micromobility resources for New Jersey out of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Resource Center as well as forum for discussing how to expand safe, equitable e-bike and e-scooter use across the state. This session will explore emerging research and resources related to micromobility classification, regulation, and safety with a focus on increasing understanding of how low-speed e-devices fit into the transportation landscape. The session will also highlight education needs and how accommodating bicycling and micromobility via protected bicycle lanes can reduce speeding and improve safety for all roadway users. Participants will share their insights about micromobility use in their communities and learn about best practices for safe, lawful, and courteous riding.
Camden to the Cape: Connecting South Jersey Through Trails
Multiple agencies in South Jersey are working together to create a continuous, 100+ mile long walking and bicycling trail between the Ben Franklin Bridge in Camden to Cape May. Hear from project representatives about the latest updates on this ambitious vision to create a trail that will connect thousands of acres of open space and parks, 33 municipalities, three counties, two MPOs, and many downtown business districts. To date, about 1/3 of the total trail has been built, $30 million in construction funding has been dedicated to build segments of the Camden County LINK, and SJTPO has completed feasibility study efforts on the Atlantic and Cape May County portions of the trail.
The Greenway and Beyond – Connecting Communities in North Jersey
The Greenway (formerly the Essex Hudson Greenway), acquired recently by the state to become NJ’s newest state park, will be a major corridor connecting communities and a catalyst for development of a trail network across the region. Hear from speakers on the current state of the Greenway and future plans, lessons from this rail to trail conversion and the transaction process to purchase right of ways and connecting to the developing trail network in Jersey City and beyond.
Exploring Successful State Multi-use Trail Programs Across the Country
Tom will share some of the most effective multi-use trail programs from other states in the northeast and nationally. His 20 examples all share some common features which he will expand on further. These include legislative, policy, and administrative actions that have furthered trail development and active transportation.
Vision Zero in Hoboken and Jersey City – A Candid Conversation
The Cities of Hoboken and Jersey City have experienced success in their Vision Zero programs. Join Transportation Directors Ryan Sharp and Mike Manzella in a candid conversation about lessons learned, unique opportunities and pressing challenges, and the future of Vision Zero in their Cities, Hudson County, New Jersey, and beyond. Moderated by Mike Dannemiller, Supervising Engineer, Middlesex County Office of Planning.
Don’t Wait, Demonstrate! Safety Treatments to Try Before You Buy
Increasingly, municipal decision makers are interested in creating safer and more multimodal streets to accommodate users of all ages and abilities. However, with limited resources, project implementation can be challenging. Enter Demonstration Projects. These innovative approaches to project delivery can be installed quickly using temporary, low-cost materials such as paint or planters and allow municipalities and the community to test and experience improvements before more significant capital investments. This session will cover how to plan and install Demonstration Projects, how to engage your community before, during, and after installation, and how to access materials to support implementation. We’ll also have an interactive roundtable session for groups to design and share their own location-specific Demonstration Project!
Accessibility and Safety: Does Accessibility Make You Safer?
The goal of this session is to outline why and how active transportation advocates can and should work with advocates for people with disabilities. We will review the Access Board regulations for multi-use paths, parks and greenways as these can provide significant opportunities for riding, rolling and walking. We will provide an overview of ways that New Jersey is addressing accessibility including a statewide initiative to improve access to nature; to showcase accessible playgrounds; and review the challenges and opportunities for accessible trail development. Disability and active transportation advocates have a shared goal of improving safe travel for all users. The ADA provides a valuable tool for pushing necessary active transportation infrastructure improvements. Session attendees will learn some basic steps that can continue to create safe, accessible places in New Jersey.
Equitable Mobility
Moving freely is important despite one's ability. In some communities, the built environment does not provide the same level of mobility options and access to greenspace in comparison to other communities. The same level of investment to improve the built environment is not properly shared among communities and many communities have experienced disinvestment, which affects mobility. How communities and advocates have been working to create equitable mobility will be explored.
Vision Zero and Local Safety Action Plans Across the State
The new federal funding has brought new opportunities for safer and more inclusive streets. Hear from representatives from our three MPO’s, (Metropolitan Planning Organizations) how they are helping counties and municipalities with planning and funding to make NJ’s streets safer for all users and a safer place to bike and walk.
