How can community leadership programs improve transportation?

Transportation is a vital issue for many communities, especially those facing challenges such as congestion, pollution, accessibility, and equity. How can community leadership programs help address these challenges and improve transportation for everyone? In this article, we will explore some ways that community leaders can learn, collaborate, and advocate for better transportation solutions.

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1 Identify transportation needs and gaps

One of the first steps for community leaders is to identify the transportation needs and gaps in their communities. This may involve conducting surveys, interviews, focus groups, or community meetings to gather input from diverse stakeholders, such as residents, businesses, nonprofits, and public agencies. Community leaders can also use data and maps to analyze the current transportation system and identify areas of improvement, such as safety, reliability, affordability, and accessibility.

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Daniel B.

Business Recycling Coordinator, City of Newport News
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In my experience, community decision makers tend to be very myopic on this subject. More often than not, what they rely on is what "professionals in traffic engineering" propose rather than listen to the public that they serve. Listen first... Then, the goal should be; "Get the people from where they are to where they want or need to go as quickly and efficiently as possible." Further, adapt existing resources to the needs of the community you serve.

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2 Learn from best practices and innovations

Another step for community leaders is to learn from best practices and innovations in transportation from other communities, regions, or countries. This may involve researching, visiting, or networking with other community leadership programs that have successfully implemented or advocated for transportation solutions, such as transit, biking, walking, car-sharing, or electric vehicles. Community leaders can also learn from experts, mentors, or peers who have relevant knowledge, experience, or skills in transportation planning, design, policy, or management.

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3 Collaborate with diverse partners and stakeholders

A third step for community leaders is to collaborate with diverse partners and stakeholders to develop and implement transportation solutions that meet the needs and preferences of their communities. This may involve forming coalitions, alliances, or networks with other community leaders, organizations, or groups that share a common vision, goal, or interest in transportation. Community leaders can also engage with public officials, agencies, or decision-makers who have the authority, resources, or influence to support or approve transportation projects, programs, or policies.

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Lynn Terlaga

Municipal Affairs at COA - Partnering with municipalities and transit authorities to provide cost-free infrastructure.
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19 million Americans reported at least some mobility difficulty. 42% of those with disabilities use the bus three or more days per week than do the non-disabled. 21% of bus riders are 55+. Maybe it's time we offer them some help.

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4 Advocate for transportation equity and justice

A fourth step for community leaders is to advocate for transportation equity and justice in their communities. This may involve raising awareness, educating, or mobilizing their communities about the impacts and benefits of transportation on social, economic, environmental, and health outcomes. Community leaders can also use various strategies, such as storytelling, media, campaigns, petitions, or demonstrations, to influence public opinion, policy, or action on transportation issues. Community leaders can also monitor and evaluate the implementation and outcomes of transportation solutions and hold accountable those responsible for delivering them.

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Lynn Terlaga

Municipal Affairs at COA - Partnering with municipalities and transit authorities to provide cost-free infrastructure.
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"John Bauters was waiting for a bus in Emeryville, CA, where he is mayor when he noticed that a passenger at the stop across the street had nowhere to sit. The man, who was older and used a cane, was forced to lean against a trash can for support, and he looked like he was struggling.” "If there's one more senior who can choose to stay independent in my city because we provided a bus seat to them because in the absence of that, they don't have mobility choices, I'm going to put a bus seat there," Bauters added, "You don't need to study whether or not people need to sit especially people who are older, people who have mobility issues, people with children, people who've walked a long way, or who are carrying things."

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5 Develop leadership skills and capacities

A fifth step for community leaders is to develop their own leadership skills and capacities to effectively lead and manage transportation solutions in their communities. This may involve participating in training, coaching, mentoring, or peer learning opportunities that enhance their knowledge, skills, or abilities in areas such as communication, collaboration, negotiation, problem-solving, innovation, or advocacy. Community leaders can also seek feedback, reflection, or recognition from their peers, mentors, or supporters to improve their performance, motivation, or confidence.

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6 Create a culture of transportation leadership

A sixth and final step for community leaders is to create a culture of transportation leadership in their communities. This may involve inspiring, empowering, or supporting other potential or emerging community leaders who have an interest or passion for transportation. Community leaders can also celebrate, share, or showcase their successes, challenges, or lessons learned from their transportation solutions to motivate, inform, or influence others. Community leaders can also foster a sense of belonging, identity, or pride among their communities around their transportation values, vision, or achievements.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can community leadership programs improve transportation?

1

2

3

4

5

6

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1 Identify transportation needs and gaps

2 Learn from best practices and innovations

3 Collaborate with diverse partners and stakeholders

4 Advocate for transportation equity and justice

5 Develop leadership skills and capacities

6 Create a culture of transportation leadership

7 Here’s what else to consider

Non-profit Leadership

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How can community leadership programs improve transportation?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Identify transportation needs and gaps

2 Learn from best practices and innovations

3 Collaborate with diverse partners and stakeholders

4 Advocate for transportation equity and justice

5 Develop leadership skills and capacities

6 Create a culture of transportation leadership

7 Here’s what else to consider

Non-profit Leadership

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