Discussion on Transportation Equity in Springfield Slated for May 12
SPRINGFIELD — Transportation is a crucial link to ensure opportunity for all, connecting people to jobs, schools, housing, healthcare, and grocery stores. But millions of poor people and people of color live in communities where quality transportation options are unaffordable, unreliable, or nonexistent. Federal transportation policy choices can address this inequity — and have an enormous impact on the economy, climate, and health.
The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission and LiveWell Springfield will present a discussion on Tuesday, May 12 on advocating for transportation policies that advance economic and social equity in Springfield and the region. The event will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. at the UMass Center at Springfield, 1500 Main St. (Tower Square). Parking is available in the Tower Square parking garage and will be reimbursed. The site is also easily accessible by major bus lines.
The guest speaker will be Beverly Scott, a national transportation leader who most recently served as general manager of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority. From 2007 to 2011, she was the CEO of Atlanta’s Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority system. In 2012, President Obama named Scott a Transportation Innovator of Change for her record of exemplary leadership and service in the transit industry. A catered reception will follow Scott’s talk.
For additional information, contact Catherine Ratté, PVPC principal planner, at (413) 285-1174 or [email protected]. This event is funded through a Leadership Conference Education Fund and PolicyLink to advance affordable, accessible transportation policy. The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, on behalf of LiveWell Springfield, is one of just six organizations across the country to receive this award.
