Don’t forget! SUMC is still on the search for an Engagement Strategy Manager to help expand our network and strengthen online #engagement! This role will support our mission to build connections with public, private, and community partners while advancing equitable and sustainable mobility. If you’re experienced in network-building and digital engagement, this is a great opportunity to contribute to impactful change alongside like-minded and passionate team members. Join us in reshaping #transportation systems for the better and apply now: https://lnkd.in/g-2-A24

We're thrilled to welcome the newest members of SUMC's Chicago and Los Angeles teams! From Program Managers to Fellows, each of our new team members brings unique expertise and a shared passion for advancing equitable and sustainable #transportation. Stay tuned to learn more about the incredible work they’ll be doing to support the future of #sharedmobility and learn more about our team here: https://lnkd.in/gqKbQG9s

Design Framework: Mobility Hubs for Women & Caregivers is an ongoing project in collaboration with Living Cities and Communities focused on addressing the unique transportation challenges faced by women and caregivers. Through insightful dialogues with community organizations in Chicago, Illinois, and Gothenburg, Sweden, we are developing a comprehensive design guide that prioritizes caregiving trips and equity in transportation. This evolving framework aims to create more inclusive and efficient mobility hubs that cater to the specific needs of these groups, fostering better access to essential services. We’re excited to share the latest case study from SUMC’s Mobility Learning Center, which details our progress and key findings so far. Dive into the full case study here: https://lnkd.in/guH-g9p4

October was a great month of learning and participation for the SUMC team, with two events taking place in the vibrant city of #Philadelphia! SUMC’s Director of Federal Programs had the honor of moderating a panel at the 2024 North American Bikeshare & Scootershare Association Conference, where shared mobility advocates explored innovative strategies for advancing bikeshare and scootershare. Later on, our Program Associate attended the 2024 Mpact Conference, diving into conversations on equitable transit-oriented development. The event provided the opportunity to connect with transportation professionals from across the country, as well as to experience Philadelphia’s transit network up close with a visit to Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)'s historic Suburban Station - a true transit enthusiast’s treat! We're grateful for the chance to be part of these insightful conversations in such an iconic city for transit.

One of the major insights from SUMC and AARP’s recent report is the potential for transactional data specifications (TDS) to revolutionize non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). The report showcases how coordinated DRT services can offer reliable access to health services, a crucial resource for individuals without personal vehicles. Greater interoperability between providers like NEMT services made possible by TDS ensures that people in need of medical appointments and services can depend on a seamless, integrated, and accessible system! Read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/gR-SVUZx

What does transportation that’s climate-ready, equitable, safe and affordable actually look like? Benjamin de la Peña, CEO of the Shared-Use Mobility Center, explains more on #MeetTheLeader. Listen here: https://lnkd.in/e4Qs7SzJ

A major new report from the Union of Concerned Scientists shows how expanding transportation options can help lead us to a cleaner, healthier, more affordable future. We show that: - A system with improved transportation options and reduced driving could save up to $201 billion in energy infrastructure and $128 billion in public health costs through 2050, presenting a more effective climate solution than the current car-dependent model. - The auto and oil industries have a vested interest in car dependence, currently receiving more than 75 percent of public and private transportation spending and have lobbied for decades to prioritize cars over a more complete and affordable set of transportation options. - Science-based policies that prioritize more transportation choices align with community-based solutions where local advocates have long fought for a transportation system that prioritizes people over industry interests.

This September, SUMC's Partnerships and Engagement Director Hannah Wilson had the pleasure of attending two wonderful local events in Chicago! First, she attended Equiticity's Annual Meeting #Equiticity2024, hearing from inspiring and determined voices like Equiticity CEO Olatunji Oboi Reed, Gregory Rodriguez of Stantec, and former SUMC board member Mariia Zimmerman of U.S. Department of Transportation! The event was a vibrant space for discussing how federal programs like Reconnecting Communities and Thriving Communities can advance mobility justice for BIPOC communities. Hannah also joined the some the Northwest Center team for one of their community bike rides, which bring together Chicagoans to the Belmont Cragin neighborhood to create meaningful relationships in the community. Both events were a great opportunity to stay connected with our local allies in the push for #MobilityJustice!

Last month, we had the incredible opportunity to celebrate SUMC’s 10th anniversary in #Chicago, marking a decade of advancing our mission for #equitable and #sustainable transportation. It was a joy to reflect on how far we've come alongside those who have supported us throughout this journey. Despite the rain, the boat cruise created a perfect setting to take a step back and honor the progress we’ve made together, in Chicago and abroad. As we look ahead, we remain inspired and committed to fostering a more just, accessible, and sustainable future through our research, advocacy, and technical assistance and grateful to continue this important work with all of you. Here's to another wonderful ten years! 🥂

Transit ridership continues to rise across the country. In Seattle, King County Metro Transit averages 300,000 trips per day – a 22% increase compared to last year. KCM recently increased its fall transit service, adding more than 3,700 weekly bus trips, connecting routes to new Sound Transit light-rail stations and expanding its microtransit service to Northshore, WA. tinyurl.com/mszphy9s