Mission
AMPO has launched the Active Transportation Working Group. The group seeks to build capacity amongst MPOs and advance the state of planning and implementation for bicycle, pedestrian, and non-motorized transportation projects and programs. Emerging technology and new mobility options have and will continue to fundamentally change the transportation network throughout metropolitan areas. Active transportation planning is a critical element of the metropolitan transportation planning process.
Goals
The purpose of this working group will be to provide a forum for MPO staff to share practices, information, and resources as well as identify needs and gaps. Focus areas to be addressed include, but are not limited to:
- Coordinating with DOTs and local governments to incorporate safe and accessible active transportation into road/street projects;
- Building and expanding partnerships to advance programs and projects related to active transportation;
- Reducing barriers that can delay implementation of smaller-scale projects that use federal funds, including pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure;
- Identifying opportunities to support accessible planning through environmental justice-based initiatives;
- Advocating for safety through data and storytelling, and collaborating with a diverse group of multi-jurisdictional policymakers and stakeholders who have a similar focus (e.g., Vision Zero, Road to Zero);
- Identifying opportunities, challenges, needs, and emerging issues in active transportation planning; and
- Communicating and sharing best practices, guidance, resources, and activities with other AMPO committees and at AMPO events, as appropriate.
Active Transportation Discussion Forum
Join the Active Transportation working group leadership team and its members on the My AMPO discussion forum. Click My AMPO on the top right side of this page and log in to join the discussion. If you have any questions, click the how-to instructions below.
Leadership Team
Kevin KokesKevin is a Program Manager within the Sustainable Development Program of the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) Transportation Department. The Sustainable Development Program is responsible for preparing and implementing programs and projects that integrate land use, transportation, and air quality policy of Mobility 2045, the Metropolitan Transportation Plan for the 12-county Dallas – Fort Worth metropolitan area. These activities include increasing accommodations and planning for active transportation throughout in the region, as well as transit-oriented development initiatives. Active transportation efforts include planning for regional bicycle and pedestrian facilities, safety, funding, and education programs.
Ellen Zavisca
Knoxville Regional Transportation Planning Organization
Ellen has been a transportation planner with the Knoxville Regional TPO since 2005. Her focus has been on planning for active transportation, safety, and health. Her projects have included creating multiple bike/ped and greenway plans; analysis of large databases of traffic crashes; and rejuvenating the Great Smoky Mountains Regional Greenway Council. She is certified by the League of American Bicyclists as a bicycle safety instructor. Ellen has a master’s degree in urban planning from University of Illinois-Chicago and a certification from ITE as a Professional Transportation Planner.
Hugh Van Wagenen
Wasatch Front Regional Council
A Utah native, Hugh has BS and MPA degrees from Brigham Young University and is currently employed by the Wasatch Front Regional Council as the Active Transportation Planner. Previously he spent six years with Lindon City as the Planning & Economic Development Director. Hugh caught the vision of bicycling during a three week, nearly 1,000 mile unsupported bike trip along the California coastline with three friends over 17 years ago. Today, his favorite bike activity is family rides around Provo, teaching his children transportation independence. He is a member of APA, CNU, and APBP.
AMPO Contact
Caitlin Cook: ccook@ampo.org
