ARIZONA FORWARD 2012
TRAvEL TIME valley Forward study hopes to guide Arizona’s transportation systems into a less congested future By DAnIEL ESCOBEDO
A
s valley Forward transitions to Arizona Forward to encompass a statewide focus, it’s only fitting that the association with a 43-year history of success tackling environmental issues — including land use, water management, air quality and energy — turns its attention to an issue that impacts every resident and every business in Arizona. Transportation. “valley Forward has always valued transportation as one of the organization’s key areas of interest,” says John Godec, president of Godec, Randall & Associates Inc., which helps governments and businesses solve public and stakeholder challenges. “The Phoenix and Tucson metros have seen radical transportation changes and improvements in the past decade, so we’re asking, ‘What’s next? Are we good to go now?’” Just as it did last year with parks and open spaces, valley Forward hopes to answer those questions as it unveils its stance on transportation, covering topics such as transportation planning, how it impacts the quality of life in the Sun Corridor and how transportation affects Arizona’s economy. One issue that Arizona Forward wanted to address in its Transportation Primer has been on the minds of every Arizonan: traffic congestion and how to better connect cities 108 AB | November-December 2012
Eddie Jones
Job title: Principal in charge of design, Jones Studio, an award-winning architecture and interior design firm with a focus on sustainability. Position with Valley Forward: Founding member of Arizona Forward, winner of 17 Valley Forward Association Environmental Excellence Awards. Most notable personal achievement: “To have been an essential team member for the design and construction of the Arizona 9/11 Memorial, because its message will survive my generation’s raw, emotive memories.” Something that would surprise most people: “I cannot say no to (Valley Forward president and CEO) Diane Brossart.” Why he become involved with Valley Forward: “I admired their mission and commitment.” Importance of Valley Forward: “Arizona desperately needs intelligent, responsible leadership.” Legacy he hopes to leave: “Never stop caring.”