2025 COMTO Accelerate

A PUBLICATION OF THE CONFERENCE OF MINORITY TRANSPORTATION OFFICIALS

2025

WE ARE WORLD SHAPERS/ PIONEERS & PATHFINDERS/ IMPACT MAKERS WE ARE WSP Where the leading engineers, scientists and advisors unite. wsp.com

NATIONAL LEADERSHIP

CHAIR Tanya Adams Senior Vice President, Director of Strategic Partnership WSP USA

FIRST VICE CHAIR Dr. Lester Woods Chief Administrative Officer Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT)

SECOND VICE CHAIR Gwendolen Gray Vice President, Program Management HNTB

SECRETARY/TREASURER Yetunde Olumide Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)

MEMBERS-AT-LARGE Johnell Bell Founder and Chief Executive Officer Espousal Strategies LLC Chief of Equity Officer Interstate Bridge Program

Sharon Jean-Baptiste VP, East Central Transportation Growth Director Jacobs

Debra Johnson General Manager and CEO Denver Regional Transportation District (RTD)

Kimberly Slaughter Senior Vice President and Transportation Leader for North America TYLin

COUNCIL OF PRESIDENTS REPRESENTATIVES Steve Granson COMTO Houston President Associate Vice President - Project Development Leader HNTB

Richard Watson COMTO New York President Senior Director, Labor and Employee Relations Metropolitan Transportation Authority of NY

Edna Stanley COMTO SoCal President Deputy Chief Operations Officer of Transit Service Delivery Los Angeles Metro

Dave Wong Vice President Transportation Client Development Director HDR

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Better mobility, better communities Transforming transportation systems to improve mobility, support strong economies, and enhance quality of life in communities across the globe.

Proud COMTO Legacy Partner

hdrinc.com

ABOUT COMTO | ACCELERATE

Who We Are We ensure transportation serves all.

What We Believe We believe that all lived experience moves the world. We believe that the leadership of a massive industry that has the responsibility of transporting all people, all the time, should reflect the communities it serves. We believe that commitment to uplifting all people moves us forward every day.

ACCELERATE is a publication of the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO).

Articles may not be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission.

DESIGN Doug Hunley | Design DCH

PUBLISHER & EDITOR IN CHIEF April Rai, President & CEO, COMTO

COMTO Headquarters 4121 Wilson Blvd Suite 901 Arlington, VA 22203 Phone: 202-506-2917 Email: info@comto.org Website: comto.org

STAFF WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS Delia Goncalves Vice President, External Affairs Nadji Kirby Managing Director Strategic Initiatives & Stakeholder Engagement Kristen Cox Sr. Manager, Membership & Chapter Engagement

COMTO COUNCIL OF PRESIDENTS Alabama Charlotte Shaw Arizona Tony Santana Atlanta Kenyata Smiley Austin Yannis Banks Boston Aboubacar Konate Central Florida Iranetta Dennis Chicago Rovaughn Graham Cincinnati Sally Stewart McKinnie Cleveland Daveda Bencs Colorado Rico Nelson

Columbus Quincy Howard Connecticut Sharon Okoye District of Columbia Jeff Parker Ft. Lauderdale Annette Payne Hampton Roads Sheri Dixon Honolulu Hawaii Roland "JR" Carino Houston Steve Granson Jacksonville Tsopie Trottie Kansas City Maurice Gay Louisiana Jamal Smiles

Maryland Oluseyi Olugbenle Memphis Avery Mull Miami Wade Jones Jr. Michigan Beverly Watts Minnesota Tekia Jefferson Nashville Kia Lewis New York Richard Watson North Carolina Ebony Pittman North Texas Gabriel Beltran Northern California DeNise Lynell Blake

Oregon/SW Washington Coral Egnew Palm Beach County Ann McNeill Philadelphia Carrie Givhan Pittsburgh Jerimaine Ward Richmond Joe Dillard San Antonio Maurice Bridges Southern California Edna Stanley St. Louis Vivian Martain Toronto & Region Mavara Turab Washington State Grantley Martelly

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Letter from COMTO

7

RECAP 2025 Celebrating Women Who Move The Nation

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FROM OUR INDUSTRY AND COLLABORATIVE PARTNERS WSP Cities’ Transit-Oriented Future

12

Jacobs Enhancing the World’s Busiest Airport for Years to Come

16

HDR Transportation’s Vital Mission & Our Role Endures

18

GFT Paving the Way for Comprehensive Infrastructure: Building Connected, Thriving Communities

22

IBTTA Strengthening the Pipeline: Early Career Engagement and Retention in Tolling

26

Latinos in Transit Advancing Leadership, Mentorship, and Workforce Development

30

Mpact Path to Prosperity: Transit, Land Use and Community

32

AMAC Advancing Aviation and Adapting to Success in Challenging Times

36

FROM COMTO Comto Notes From The Hill: Connecting Comto Members to Legislative News

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LETTER FROM COMTO

Dear COMTO Family, Welcome to the summer 2025 issue of Accelerate, the annual publication of the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO). This edition coincides with our 2025 National Meeting and Training Conference, which is centered on the theme: “Path to Prosperity: Transportation for Connected, Thriving, and Sustainable Communities.”

As the transportation industry and this nation navigates a transformative period, this issue delves into critical intersections of infrastructure investments, innovative design, emerging technologies, and meaningful community engagement to ensure that the benefits of these advancements are distributed to all.

In this issue, we highlight the work of WSP as it adapts to the future of growing cities. Analysts predict that in just 25 years, 7 out of 10 people worldwide will live in urban areas.

WSP is combatting urban sprawl and supporting sustainable growth through Transit Oriented Development. Innovators and visionaries are not only reimagining cities with TOD but expanding its benefits by creating Transit Oriented Communities. TOCs represent the next level of TOD. From a planning and design perspective, community-focused outcomes result from the combined efforts of people who work with form, activity and meaning to support and enhance the value the community places on a given location.

GFT is paving the way for comprehensive infrastructure.

Read about GFT’s community-centered approach to business that can be seen in projects from Baltimore, Maryland to Los Angeles, California. GFT’s dedication to thoughtful design begins with a comprehensive approach that ensures projects not only improve the lives of those impacted by the work but also engage all voices from conception to execution while also being culturally relevant and meaningful.

includes developing training programs, collaborating on personnel resources, identifying and mitigating construction risks, holding stakeholder meetings, and continuously improving project delivery.

Be inspired by Latinos in Transit’s shared mission with COMTO. LIT is creating opportunity, driving growth, and connecting communities to ensure the transportation industry reflects and uplifts the communities it serves.

Read more about LIT’s AI-powered structured mentorship program, an expanded Leadership Summit and Academy, and the launch of a nationwide K-12 public transit career curriculum introducing young students to careers in transit.

This issue of Accelerate is a call to action for all stakeholders in the transportation industry to build stronger, safer infrastructure by first developing all communities and untapped talent from within. By highlighting varied perspectives and innovative approaches, we aim to inspire continued progress toward a transportation system that truly serves everyone.

As you explore these articles, we hope you are encouraged by the stories of progress and innovation and motivated to join us in ensuring transportation serves all. Let us work together to build our collective path to prosperity through a transportation system that creates connected, thriving, and sustainable communities.

Jacobs discusses its decades-long project advancing the nation’s busiest airports for the future of air travel. Jacobs and its partners have contributed to the growth of HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport by expanding its runway, upgrading its terminal and rental car facility, and offering airport-wide asset management strategy. This

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RECAP

COMTO Honors 10 Women Leaders Driving the Transportation Industry Forward in Sold-Out Event Over 500 transportation leaders from across the country gathered in the Nation’s Capital to celebrate 10 trailblazing women as they received the industry’s most coveted award. COMTO, North America’s premier industry organization ensuring transportation serves all, is hosted its 14th Annual Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation Awards Breakfast at the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery, Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 8:00 –10:00 AM. The award recognizes women leaders for their excellence, innovation, and exemplary dedication to transportation. The 2025 COMTO Women Who Move the Nation Honorees are: 1. Tanya Adams, SVP, Director of Strategic Partnership, WSP 2. Rhonda Briggins, Vice President, Transit Service, Jacobs 3. Daniella Levine Cava, Mayor, Miami-Dade County 4. Nikki Frenney, Vice President, Customer Success, MV Transportation 5. L ori M.K. Kahikina, Executive Director & CEO, Honolulu Authority for RapidTransportation 6. Coree Cuff Lonergan, CEO/General Manager, Broward County Transit 7. Yvonne Lopez-Diaz, Vice President, HNTB8.Yetunde Olumide, CFO, WMATA Washington Metro Area TransitAuthority 9. Dottie Watkins, CEO, CapMetro 10. Eve Williams, President, Dikita Enterprises “Uplifting all lived experience at the decision-making table is one of COMTO’s core values,” said April Rai, President & CEO of COMTO, “recognizing these leaders during Women’s History Month is an intentional act of appreciation, inspiring the next generation of transportation leaders to emulate their strength, resilience, and perseverance.” Each honoree gave heartfelt and inspiring speeches after President & CEO April Rai presented their awards. Delia Gonçalves, Vice President, External Affairs, returned as the event’s emcee. The ceremony was also highlighted by our dynamic keynote speaker Frederique Irwin, President & CEO of the National Women’s History Museum. Irwin congratulated the honorees in their roles as living history and shared the museum’s inspiring campaign, She Is Not a Footnote.To date, COMTO has inducted 152 women into its Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation signature class of leaders. The honorees encompass a variety of multi-modal transportation, spanning both the public and private sectors.

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ur O o t s n o i t a l u t Congra ees! r o n o H 5 202 2025

TRANSPORTATION HONOREE

Tanya Adams Senior Vice President, Director of Strategic Partnership WSP

2025

TRANSPORTATION HONOREE

2025

ADVOCACY HONOREE

2025

TRANSPORTATION HONOREE

Rhonda Briggins

Daniella Levine Cava

Nikki Frenney

Vice President, Transit Services Jacobs

Mayor Miami-Dade County

Vice President of Customer Success MV Transportation

2025

TRANSIT HONOREE

2025

TRANSPORTATION HONOREE

2025

TRANSPORTATION HONOREE

Lori M.K. Kahikina

Coree Cuff Lonergan

Yvonne Lopez-Diaz

Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation

CEO & General Manager Broward County

Vice President HNTB

2025

TRANSIT HONOREE

2025

TRANSIT HONOREE

2025

SMALL BUSINESS HONOREE

Yetunde Olumide

Dottie Watkins

Evalynn Williams

Chief Financial Officer WMATA

Chief Executive Officer CapMetro

President Dikita Enterprises

Jacobs congratulates the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials on your 54th Annual National Meeting and Training Conference.

At Jacobs, we see an opportunity to keep the world moving forward.

We understand the transportation landscape and how it’s evolving to ensure a more resilient and sustainable future. When it comes to navigating the challenges and complexities involved in building mobility networks, we are up to the challenge.

We’re pushing the limits of what’s possible.

Follow us @JacobsConnects | jacobs.com

Shaping the future of inclusive mobility GFT blends Gannett Fleming’s legacy of infrastructure innovation with TranSystems’ comprehensive transportation expertise to deliver resilient, future-ready multi-modal solutions. Our unified brand reflects a deeper purpose: to deliver with excellence, lead with equity, and uplift the diverse voices driving our industry forward.

From integrating cutting-edge technologies and enhancing transportation networks, we are redefining what it means to move people, connect communities, and shape the future of transportation.

As a proud COMTO Gold Industry Partner, we’re honored to support the women who lead, inspire, and move the nation.

gftinc.com

PLATINUM INDUSTRY PARTNER

Cities’ Transit-Oriented Future

Dallas Union Station is one of the centerpieces of the downtown development in the Kay Bailey Hutcheson Convention Center master plan

By Ruben Landa

Booming city populations around the world put an intense

than low-density car-oriented growth, TOD reduces the need

focus on transit. Over half of the world—more than 4 billion

to develop rural areas and valuable open spaces. TOD also can

people—live in cities, and this number is increasing. By 2050,

support safer mobility through well-designed pedestrian access

nearly 7 out of 10 people will.

to transit.

Creating livable and vibrant urban areas in growing cities

TOD also relieves congestion in metropolitan areas. Greater

requires a fresh and forward-thinking approach to shaping

connectivity opens opportunity for people with disabilities,

communities. This is no small task as socio-economic issues

young people, the elderly and people who do not own cars

and intensifying environmental challenges continue to impact

or prefer not to drive – offering the ability to use multiple

decision-making.

modes of transportation, especially when active transport and micromobility options are linked to station hubs.

Transit-oriented development (TOD) and Transit-oriented community (TOC) approaches can play a vital role.

“TOD provides real benefits for transit agencies,” Manjeet Ranu, senior vice president and national planning lead for WSP in the

TOD MAKES AN IMPACT When using land and natural resources around public transit efficiently, TOD counters sprawl and supports sustainable urban growth. By focusing on dense centers and transit nodes, rather 12

U.S., said. “Housing and employment opportunities near stations drives ridership demand, and the development of agency-owned properties near a station can provide a new revenue source.”

TOC TAKES IT TO ANOTHER LEVEL TOD evolves to TOC when transit anchors urban form. TOC is achieved by combining appropriate contextual urban density, land use diversity and high-quality design to foster flourishing communities that can easily connect to other communities. It requires creating inviting and inclusive public realms.

From a planning and design perspective, community-focused outcomes result from the combined efforts of people who work with form, activity and meaning to support and enhance the value the community places on a given location. Form is shaped by developers, architects, landscape architects and transport planners; activity refers to frequency of transport and curation of public space; and meaning involves public art, local/indigenous engagement and interpretation.

Four guiding principles drive the shift from development to community:

Design for People Respond to the Market Connect to public transit Be Future Ready A recent WSP paper, Transit-Oriented Communities Advance Sustainable Cities, takes a detailed look at these guiding principles and how they are shaping TOC approaches in growing cities, here in the U.S. and around the world. It is pioneering work, preparing big cities for a sustainable future of improved mobility and connectivity.

DOWNLOAD THE PAPER HERE.

Greater connectivity opens opportunity for people with disabilities, young people, the elderly and people who do not own cars or prefer not to drive

https://www.wsp.com/en-gl/insights/ transit-oriented-communities-advance-sustainable-cities

Ruben Landa is Vice President and Texas & Louisiana Region lead for Advisory and Planning at WSP. A member of COMTO since 2000, Landa is a former national board member and four-year president for COMTO North Texas.

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Rail solutions that move communities forward.

Program Management Project Management Construction Management Project Management Oversight Alternative Delivery Advisory Management Consulting Facilities Management www.hillintl.com | 800.283.4088

Congratulations to COMTO on another banner year ensuring transportation serves all.

We stand with you in your belief that all lived experience moves the world and your commitment that uplifting all people moves us forward every day.

LEGACY INDUSTRY PARTNER

Enhancing the World’s Busiest Airport for Years to Come

Jacobs has played a key role in developing Hartsfield-

have been implemented, with $11.9 billion in active projects

Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) since 2001.

in planning, design, procurement, or construction phases.

We’ve supported projects like the 5th Runway, Maynard

Recently, the program was reprioritized to include $4.9 billion

Jackson International Terminal, Consolidated Rental Car

in additional projects, totaling approximately $20 billion.

Facility, and airport-wide asset management strategy. Our Operation Management and Facilities Services (OMFS) team provides maintenance for the domestic terminal and concourses, contracted by the Atlanta Airlines Terminal Company (AATC).

of Aviation in implementing ATLNext, working closely with the airport’s project management team to administer construction policies and procedures. This includes developing training programs, collaborating on personnel

Currently, we provide construction management support

resources, identifying and mitigating construction risks,

for over 180 capital projects at ATL as part of its $20 billion

holding stakeholder meetings, and continuously improving

capital improvement program, “ATLNext.” Under the

project delivery.

joint venture “ATL Construction Management Partners” with Parsons Transportation Group, Inc. and Rohadfox Construction Control Services, we support projects aimed at rehabilitating existing facilities, constructing new ones, and enhancing customer experience.

The ATLNext program, part of the Airport Use and Lease Agreement, extends for 20 years. Over $3.7 billion in projects 16

As construction manager, Jacobs assists the Department

By leveraging advanced opportunities to develop staff and introduce technology, we drive performance and innovation, ensuring we remain at the forefront of industry advancements with solutions like building information modeling, integrated project delivery platforms, and sustainability practices.

Our work impacts the efficiency and

Our work impacts the efficiency and safety of the world’s busiest airport, enhancing infrastructure that supports global travel and commerce.

safety of the world’s busiest airport, enhancing infrastructure that supports global travel and commerce. We promote sustainability and innovation, setting benchmarks for the industry and

that meet today’s needs and future challenges, ensuring ATL

supporting community and economic development by

serves as a premier gateway for air travel and a catalyst for

creating jobs, fostering tourism, and enhancing regional

economic growth.

connectivity.

Looking ahead, ATL is poised for continued innovation and growth. Jacobs and our partners will continue enhancing the airport, focusing on expanding capacity and improving

Find out more about our work at ATL: www.jacobs.com/ projects/hartsfield-jackson-atlanta-international-airport

passenger experience. Investments in resilient construction materials, advanced security technologies, and community engagement will ensure ATL remains a safe and reliable hub for global travel. Our focus is on delivering adaptable projects

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LEGACY INDUSTRY PARTNER

Transportation’s Vital Mission & Our Role Endures

By Matt Tucker, HDR

Having spent more than 30 years in the transportation industry, one thing has become abundantly clear: Change is inevitable and accelerating, but the core need for comprehensive mobility solutions remains.

I really appreciate COMTO’s theme for this year’s meeting and its recognition that transportation is foundational to achieving community prosperity. Well considered and holistic investments in the transportation system do create thriving, sustainable communities.

for transportation services and our focus on delivering accessible, safe mobility for all. In changing and challenging times, this must remain one of our highest priorities and why an organization’s mission and vision statements are so important.

Immediately prior to joining HDR in 2023, I served 15 years as CEO of the North County Transit District, where our vision was “a comprehensive transit and mobility system that connects all North County San Diego residents and visitors to a healthy, economically vibrant,

I have served transit and rail agencies across North

and thriving region.” The vision of NCTD, just like other

America, from Virginia to Arizona to California. The

agencies that I had the privilege to serve, embraced

technology of today includes capabilities we could only

the notion of transportation supporting community

dream of decades ago. The mobility pattern of users has

prosperity.

and continues to rapidly shift. And yes, the political and regulatory environment has been constantly in flux.

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But what hasn’t changed for us is the essential need

Agency mission and vision statements can sometimes be

As we move forward, our focus and decision-making

ignored or belittled by skeptics who feel they’re vague,

needs to be centered on our core vision and mission. And

unhelpful, pie in the sky, or not relevant to the lives of

we must remember the basic truths about our industry:

customers. But they show their value in times of uncertainty

Transportation improves lives and supports prosperity

and change. As we navigate new normals, experience some

when done right. Because of our work, our neighbors,

headwinds, and chart new paths, it is critical that we continue

friends, families and children, and the communities we serve,

to embrace our core values and rely upon these guiding

have better lives and the opportunity to prosper. That’s

principles as we make key decisions.

something to be incredibly proud of, and a goal that all can

This holds true for transit agencies certainly, but also for all of the transportation modes that COMTO includes. As a former CEO, I often considered key decisions from the perspective

get behind. What an exciting prospect. What a responsibility.

What a privilege.

Matt Tucker is HDR’s global transit director.

of a transit dependent customer standing at a bus stop on a rainy day or a single parent bus operator having to work early morning or late-night shifts with little scheduling flexibility.

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We, at TJ Hunter Engineering, Inc. (TJHE), are a professional consulting engineering firm based in Dallas, Texas. Our expertise lies in providing comprehensive engineering and construction services.

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Check Out Our Latest Updates On LinkedIn

CONGRATULATIONS COMTO FOR HOSTING THE 54TH COMTO NATIONAL MEETING AND TRAINING CONFERENCE IN NYC!!!

RIGOR MANAGEMENT CONNECT • COLLABORATE • EXECUTE CORE CAPABILITIES Program/Project Management | Strategic Planning | Organizational Development Technology-Driven Solutions: We specialize in the implementation of cloud-based enterprise systems that enhance governance, compliance, and operational efficiency. Our expertise includes HRIS, ERP, fare collection, timekeeping, and risk management solutions, modernizing outdated systems to improve security, scalability, and business performance.

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email: yjanniere@rigormanagement.com

Website: www.rigormanagement.com

OUR PAST DRIVES OUR FUTURE

40 Years of Service to Tampa Bay! With ferries, buses, trolleys and on-demand services, PSTA connects you to your community!

psta.net | @ridepsta

GOLD INDUSTRY PARTNER

Paving the Way for Comprehensive Infrastructure: Building Connected, Thriving Communities Masai Lawson, Senior Talent Acquisition & DE&I Strategist

At GFT, we believe inclusion begins with how you show up. For us, that means working side-by-side with the communities we serve — listening closely, staying present, and designing infrastructure that reflects real lives and real needs.

The need to learn from past mistakes cannot be overstated. Inequity in infrastructure has had and continues to have a lasting impact on the most vulnerable communities. Meeting the needs of a variety of communities, from job opportunities to business growth and better access to public transportation, is key to creating infrastructure solutions for everyone.

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Our dedication to inclusive infrastructure design begins with a comprehensive approach that ensures projects not only improve the lives of those impacted by the work we do but also engage all voices from conception to execution while also being culturally relevant and meaningful.

LISTENING FIRST Before a single line is drawn or plan reviewed, we take time to understand the people at the center of every project.

Community meetings, multilingual outreach, and local advisory boards help us shape work that fits — not just in terms of function but also in how it feels to live alongside it.

The need to learn from past mistakes cannot be overstated.

IMPROVING EVERYDAY ACCESS Rendering is of the Market Street Station from the Inglewood Transit Connector Engineering and Design project.

EXPANDING ACCESS, CREATING OPPORTUNITY In Oakland, Calif., the Tempo Bus Rapid Transit line gives more people consistent, reliable access to work, school, and healthcare. In Phoenix, Ariz., construction of the Valley Metro Rail South Central Extension created more than 1,200 jobs while expanding transit options across historically disconnected neighborhoods. These projects also support growth through strong small business participation and local workforce development efforts.

REFLECTING IDENTITY THROUGH DESIGN

In Brooklyn, N.Y., upgrades to the Livonia Avenue Station make it easier for people with limited mobility to travel safely and independently. Accessibility improvements like these don’t always make headlines, but they matter for someone trying to get to work, make a doctor’s appointment, or visit family.

CULTIVATING STRONG COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS Early community engagement helps deliver innovative transportation solutions that build stronger connections.

For example, the Inglewood Transit Connector in Inglewood, Calif., provides connectivity between a critical international airport and downtown entertainment venues.

This is the kind of work we’re proud to do — thoughtful, shared, community-rooted. That’s how we build, not just infrastructure, but trust.

In Baltimore, Md., the Penn-North Metro SubwayLink Station incorporates public art that reflects the surrounding neighborhood’s strength and history. In Los Angeles, Calif., the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Corridor includes design features that speak directly to the local Black and Latino communities.

These choices weren’t made from afar — they came from deep, intentional collaboration.

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CONGRATULATIONS

TO COMTO

FOR ITS 54TH ANNUAL MEETING AND TRAINING CONFERENCE!

The Missouri Department of Transportation is proud of its partnership with COMTO. Together, we build connections with Missouri’s minority and disadvantaged communities.

■ MoDOT is now hiring in all areas of transportation at www.modot.org/careers.

■ Upcoming Design-Build projects and improvements to Interstate 70—offer contract opportunities to DBEs across the state.

Want to learn more? Contact MoDOT’s Businesses Development and Compliance division at: DBE@modot.mo.gov.

Helping communities arrive and thrive At Long Beach Transit, our buses are more than a means to get around town— they’re a vital engine in the growth and sustainability of our community.

Learn about our zero-emission fleet and environmental promise at ridelbt.com.

COLLABORATIVE PARTNER

Strengthening the Pipeline: Early Career Engagement and Retention In Tolling

By Wanda Klayman Interim Executive Director and CEO, IBTTA The transportation industry faces a workforce crisis.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 1.7 million highly skilled and advanced infrastructure employees (12%) will retire each year until 2031, leading to huge replacement

over 500 industry professionals, equipping them with leadership skills and industry knowledge. Many graduates have advanced to senior roles in toll agencies, engineering firms, and technology companies, demonstrating the impact of targeted talent development.

needs. Combined with a $1.2 trillion infrastructure

The Foundation’s scholarship program awards $5,000

backlog across highways and transit, the need for skilled

scholarships annually to students pursuing transportation-

professionals has never been greater. Tolling plays a critical

related degrees, providing financial support and access

role in modernizing infrastructure, but attracting and

to IBTTA’s global network. Now, IBTTA is expanding

retaining new talent remains a challenge.

its commitment with a new $10,000 Member Family

The IBTTA Foundation, the charitable arm of IBTTA, is leading the charge by investing in the future through meritbased scholarships and leadership initiatives, ensuring that talented individuals from varied backgrounds have opportunities to pursue careers in transportation.

For nearly two decades, the IBTTA Foundation’s Leadership Academy has been a cornerstone of professional

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development in tolling. Since 2008, this program has trained

Scholarship, supporting employees, children, and dependents of IBTTA members pursuing degrees in engineering, business, public policy, and technology. This initiative provides financial assistance for tuition, books, and other education costs while recognizing the dedication of IBTTA member families to the industry.

Hands-on experience is critical to building a sustainable workforce. Internships and apprenticeships provide

young professionals with exposure to tolling operations,

been identified as one of six key areas requiring focused

engineering, and mobility technology. IBTTA members

action. IBTTA’s board, sponsors, and members recognize that

actively support these programs, creating structured

modern infrastructure investments will only succeed if we

opportunities for students to engage with the industry.

have the people to design, build, operate, and maintain them.

Strategic partnerships with universities, technical schools, and organizations like COMTO help expand career pathways for students of all lived experiences.

Addressing this challenge today ensures that tolling and transportation remain engines of innovation and economic growth for generations to come.

Workforce development isn’t just an industry priority—it’s an imperative for the future of transportation. As part of IBTTA’s 5-Year Strategic Planning process, workforce has

Wanda Klayman is the Interim Executive Director and CEO of the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA), bringing over two decades of leadership to the organization. Since 2003, she has driven operational excellence, grown global membership, and elevated IBTTA’s meetings and education programs. Her efforts have fueled revenue growth and strengthened IBTTA’s role as a global advocate for tolling and user-financed transportation. Wanda also helped found the IBTTA Foundation with strong member support, advancing workforce development and community investment across the industry. Prior to her tenure at IBTTA, Klayman held senior roles in marketing and business development across the nonprofit and consulting sectors. She holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Maryland.

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Join the DTPW and County family and be part of the COMTO Public Agency of the Year miamidade.gov/jobs APPLY NOW

BE PART OF A WINNING TEAM

SUPPORTING SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVES INCLUDING E-RTGS AND SHORE POWER. PROUD SPONSOR OF

2025

COLLABORATIVE PARTNER

LIT: Advancing Leadership, Mentorship, and Workforce Development

By Christina Villarreal, Executive Director

Public transportation is more than just moving people—it’s about creating opportunity, driving economic growth, and connecting communities. Yet, leadership in the industry has not always reflected the faces of its workforce. Latinos In Transit (LIT) is changing that by expanding workforce development, mentorship, networking, and education to prepare transit professionals for leadership roles and build a stronger future for the industry.

EXPANDING CAREER GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES Over the past 18 months, LIT has scaled its programs to provide real career advancement opportunities. New initiatives include an AI-powered structured mentorship program, an expanded Leadership Summit and Leadership Academy, the Avanzando Workforce Task Force to bridge professional development gaps, and the launch of a nationwide K-12 public transit career curriculum introducing young students to transit careers.

INNOVATING MENTORSHIP AND LEARNING THROUGH TECHNOLOGY LIT’s structured mentorship program now integrates AI technology to track progress, maintain professional boundaries, and create an efficient, guided experience for mentors and mentees. The Mentorship Guide is available for free in multiple languages and includes ADA accessibility features to ensure inclusivity. The guide can be accessed on LIT’s website. Additionally, the Leadership Academy has implemented a virtual classroom platform that tracks curriculum milestones, provides a mentor hub, and offers interactive learning to keep participants engaged.

INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION THROUGH K-12 EDUCATION LIT’s K-12 public transit career curriculum introduces students to careers in transit through an interactive digital platform. The program will be hosted on LIT’s website, and the curriculum includes STEM activities, storytime modules, educational videos, and lesson plans designed for students nationwide. By making these resources widely accessible, LIT is ensuring that the future workforce is introduced to transit careers early. The program is scheduled to launch in August 2025.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT AND SHAPE THE FUTURE The future of public transportation depends on bold leaders who are ready to step up. LIT is building that future today. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting your career, there’s a place for you in this movement. Attend the LIT Leadership Summit (October 2-4, 2025), become a mentor, or support K-12 transit education. The time to invest in the next generation of transit professionals is now. Together, we can create an environment that empowers a workforce as dynamic as the communities we serve—driving the future of transit together. Empowered voices, stronger transit, brighter future!

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COLLABORATIVE PARTNER

Tilikum Crossing bridge carries trains, buses, streetcars, cyclists and pedestrians over the Willamette River in Portland, Oregon. (Credit: Travel Portland)

Path to Prosperity: Transit, Land Use and Community Thirty-plus years ago, new ideas about the linkage between public transportation and land use arose as light rail and then streetcars gained popularity as tools for revitalization in cities. Fast forward to today: transitoriented development (TOD) is mainstream and recognized for its economic return on investment. Rail-Volution, now Mpact, was founded on these ideas and has shaped the way generations of leaders approach their work. Here’s the story.

In the early 1990s, the City of Portland, Ore., hosted Regional Rail Summits, inviting citizens to explore how the expansion of the region’s first light rail line could benefit their neighborhoods. Initially drawing mostly local participants, the event increasingly attracted planners, public officials, engineers, activists and community leaders from Portland and beyond. In 1995, the City of Portland partnered with TriMet and Oregon Metro to launch the first national RailVolution conference.

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People wanted to hear about light rail and how to develop around it. Portland found that using public transit investments to guide the inevitable development pressures could benefit the entire region, reducing infrastructure costs, providing citizens with greater transportation and housing options, and reducing VMT (vehicle miles traveled) throughout the region.

Meeting in a different city each year, the conference shared case studies of what was working and raised up new challenges and innovations. Together, attendees were figuring out how to design station areas, how to work with developers and how to increase the amount and effectiveness of citizen activism in local decisions.

The success of development along transit corridors was proof that transit-oriented development could work. The annual conference offered practical tools to diverse interests

Fast forward to today: transit-oriented development (TOD) is mainstream and recognized for its economic return on investment.

and affirmed that changes in the way transportation and land use decisions are made are both possible and successful.

The Mpact Transit + Community conference is returning to Portland, where the conversation first began, October 26-29, 2025.

One of the leaders behind the first Regional Rail Summits, Congressman Earl Blumenauer, recently retired from the US Congress. He said,

Find out more at: mpactmobility.org/conference.

“When this conference began as Rail-Volution, the goal was to make cities more vibrant by reintroducing rail and developing communities around it. Transit now comes in various forms and the conversation about livability also has evolved. The primary focus remains on involving community members, agency leadership and developers in leveraging investments to achieve maximum benefit. From the beginning, we have emphasized that the focus is not solely on the project, but also on the people and the communities outside the windows of the bus, train, or building.”

ACCELERATE

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A better tomorrow is our destination, and getting there together is our goal

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COLLABORATIVE PARTNER

Advancing Aviation and Adapting to Success in Challenging Times Airports are powerful engines of economic growth, driving local and national prosperity across the United States. Airports not only provide essential transportation

Convene and collaborate with industry trade

services but also fuel job creation in industries such as

associations to leverage collective powers

hospitality, retail, and transportation. Recognizing this, the

to influence policy and regulations

Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) has advocated for policies that foster access, economic opportunities, and innovation for all within the aviation and aerospace industries since 1984. AMAC’s efforts champion the development of

Host Capitol Hill Day and the Economic Opportunity & Policy Forum in Washington, DC, from March 26–28, 2025

connected and thriving communities by ensuring small,

Host a Legislative Meeting: A Conversation

minority and women-owned businesses are a part of the

with the Experts session in New Orleans, LA,

industry’s future. Given the current political and economic impacts on the aviation industry and small businesses, AMAC has remained proactive and diligent in advocating for the interests of its members.

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AMAC WILL SOON:

on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, and elected officials during the 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference

AMAC will host its 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference in New Orleans, LA, from June 28–2, 2025, in partnership with Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.

Continuing the momentum, AMAC will host its 40th Annual AMAC Airport Business Conference in New Orleans, LA, from June 28–2, 2025, in partnership with Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. This conference is a hub for advocacy, education, and networking, providing participants with vast opportunities to refine their expertise while building valuable connections and expanding their national presence. Through its advocacy efforts, AMAC is ensuring that economic prosperity is the focus, resources are prioritized, and communities remain connected.

ACCELERATE

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NOTES FROM THE HILL

COMTO Notes From The Hill: Connecting COMTO Members to Legislative News On April 3, 2025, COMTO Headquarters launched its latest

Works Committee. According to Sec. Duffy, 3,200 construction

content series: COMTO Notes From the Hill.

projects were in limbo at the DOT awaiting grant approval.

This original series delivers timely, fact-based updates on transportation news and policy developments that directly impact COMTO members. While the content is nonpartisan and commentary-free, it focuses on key national issues affecting all modes of transportation and the stakeholders who operate within it. Each installment is published on LinkedIn, distributed via email, and archived in the News section of our website at COMTO.org.

Our first article was entitled: “Duffy plans to get ‘money out the door’ for thousands of stalled projects.” The headline revealed two revelations when Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy appeared before the Senate Environment and Public

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Duffy told Congress he intended to streamline the process for states, “so they can spend more time turning dirt and less time filling out paperwork. This article also gave a glimpse into the political dynamics on Capitol Hill and Sec. Duffy’s relationship as a former colleague during his tenure as a Republican Congressman from Wisconsin (2011-2019). The Secretary made his comments during his first appearance before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee on the Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill.

According to Committee Chair Sen. Shelley Capito (R-WV), the bill has three goals:

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2

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Improve safety and reliability of America’s surface transportation network with impactful investment.

Reform and modernize federal programs and processes to increase efficiency.

Address a variety of surface transportation needs across states.

The request included:

$1.2 billion increase for air traffic modernization and operations $596 million to improve port and shipyard infrastructure. $400 million boost for freight rale safety $770 million for multimodal freight expansion In a rapidly changing political climate, members can rely on this regular feature to stay up to date on the latest federal transportation news. COMTO Notes From the Hill aims to

Since then, we have highlighted the administration’s plan to

inform and empower our members with the knowledge they

retain and recruit air traffic controllers, enforce compliance

need to do business and continue being good stewards of

with federal executive orders that impact COMTO, staffing

COMTO’s mission of ensuring transportation serves all.

shortages and RIFs (reduction in force) at the USDOT, and the FY2026 budget. Sec. Duffy requested $26.7 billion in discretionary funds for Fiscal Year 2026.

Let’s build positive change together Hatch is steadfast in its commitment to nurturing all lived experience across the engineering landscape. In partnership with COMTO, we are driving positive change and creating opportunities for under-engaged communities.

Together, we’re devising a blueprint to elevate talent from all backgrounds and foster innovation.

Learn more on hatch.com

COMTO_Half_page_ad.pdf 1 6/19/2025 2:22:29 PM

Transdev is a proud supporter of COMTO and sponsor of the 54th National Meeting and Training Conference.

Find out more about the Transdev Difference www.transdevNA.com

We’re Already Looking Forward to 2026!

2026

Celebrating our 55th Anniversary!

We’ll see you in Washington D.C. for the 55th COMTO National Meeting & Training Conference!

July 25–28, 2026 Grand Hyatt, Washington D.C. Watch for details!

NMTC

DC IN

comto.org info@comto.org 202-506-2917 4121 Wilson Blvd., Suite 901 Arlington, VA 22203