Podcasts about Regional Plan Association

Send us a textHousing is more than just shelter—it's a reflection of our values, policies, and priorities. In this episode, we dive into the intersection of racial justice, climate change, and housing equity. From discriminatory housing practices to the growing threat of climate displacement, we unpack how systemic challenges are shaping where and how people live today. In today's episode, we're excited to have guest Pete Harrison from the Regional Plan Association.Pete Harrison joined Regional Plan Association in February 2022 as the DesegregateCT Director, leading a statewide program to enact equitable and sustainable land use policies in Connecticut. In 2024 he became RPA's director of Connecticut programs. Pete previously served for a year as Senior Policy Fellow for DesegregateCT crafting the 80-member coalition's policy briefs, communications strategy, and local organizing campaigns and helped pass the first statewide zoning reform bill in over 30 years.Prior to joining DesegregateCT, Pete worked on the intersection of housing, climate, and land use policy as a research scholar for the Buell Center of Architecture at Columbia University. He co-authored a portion of the textbook Green Reconstruction: A Curricular Toolkit for the Built Environment laying out a framework for graduate-level planning, architecture, and preservation programs to center equity and sustainability in their practices. Before that he was the senior national housing advisor for the progressive think tank, Data for Progress, where he co-authored briefs and articles on federal housing and land use policy including the Homes for All report. He also advised on the presidential campaigns of Vice President Kamala Harris, Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, and former HUD Secretary Julian Castro.Biography from RPAhttps://rpa.org/about/staff/pete-harrison

New York City is the largest city in the United States, greater than the next largest (Los Angeles) by roughly 5 million people, it is also the 13th largest city in the world. The New York Metropolitan area or the Tri-State area (NJ, NY, CT) contain 7% of the U.S population and contribute 12% to the national GDP (gross domestic product). The region is home to millions of people and jobs, cultural and historic resources, environmental treasures, international ports, and so much more, all thriving off of the city's 24 hour + 7 day a week subway system. However, that system, including the actual mechanics and infrastructure (cables, switches, train cars, etc.), stations and platforms, and access points are all in need of improvement and modernization. In January 2025, the City of New York launched its congestion tolling or congestion pricing system to disincentivize driving in one of the world's most gridlocked areas - Midtown Manhattan and to finance the much needed capital repairs along the city's transit system. Join the host of the Four Degrees to the Streets Podcast in conversation with Tiffany-Ann Taylor, Vice President of Transportation for the Regional Plan Association, the region's oldest and premier urban planning research and advocacy organization dating back to 1922, as we discuss the impact of congestion pricing and the opportunities/challenges facing the New York Tri-State area for the years to come. Share theses insights from the episode: Congestion pricing revenue is forecasted to generate $1B annually and is designated for MTA capital improvements. New York City is the first city in the United States to implement a congestion pricing network, inspiring many North American cities including Toronto, Canada and Los Angeles, California to consider congestion tolling of their own. The New York City metropolitan area struggles with the compounding challenge of an old system, with many parts of the system 100+ years old, and the impacts of climate change that cause freezing, flooding, and overheating of various parts of the transit system. Note: This episode was recorded in November 2024 prior to the tolling starting in January 2025 and prior to President Trump proposed changes to the program. Read the Regional Plan Association Press Release here: RPA Statement on Trump Administration Plan to Revoke Congestion Pricing Links: Contact RPA RPA.org / @regionplan on X / @regional_plan on Instagram Follow the Four Degrees to the Streets Podcast on Instagram @the4degreespod

For this extended holiday, enjoy some of our favorite recent conversations:For the centennial series "100 Years of 100 Things," Errol Louis, political anchor of Spectrum NY1 News, host of Inside City Hall and The Big Deal with Errol Louis, New York Magazine columnist and host of the podcast You Decide, talks about the past 100 years of the influence of Robert Moses on the New York area, which also coincides with the 50th anniversary of Robert Caro's exhaustive biography of Moses, The Power BrokerMitchell Moss, professor of urban policy and planning at New York University's Wagner School, and Rachel Weinberger, Peter W. Herman chair for transportation at Regional Plan Association, talk about the ideas and proposals on how to undo the most harmful parts of Robert Moses' legacy, especially the expressways that have divided and polluted neighborhoods.In another installment in the centennial series, Jonathan Zimmerman, professor of history of education at the University of Pennsylvania and the author of several books, including Whose America? Culture Wars in the Public Schools (University of Chicago Press, September 2022), traces the history of the so-called "culture wars" in public education, from the Scopes trial, to religion in schools, sex ed and the controversies of today over critical race theory, masks during COVID and more.Olga Khazan, staff writer at The Atlantic and the author of Weird: The Power of Being an Outsider in an Insider World (Hachette Go, 2020) and the forthcoming Me, But Better: The Science and Promise of Personality Change (S&S/Simon Element, 2025), talks about a study suggesting the current "loneliness epidemic" isn't because of a lack of friends, but a lack of time to spend with them. These interviews were lightly edited for time and clarity; the original web versions are available here:100 Years of 100 Things: Robert Moses (September 18, 2024)Undoing Robert Moses' Legacy (September 20, 2024)100 Years of 100 Things: School Culture Wars (September 23, 2024)Why Loneliness Isn't About Numbers (September 12, 2024)

Mitchell Moss, professor of urban policy and planning at New York University's Wagner School, and Rachel Weinberger, Peter W. Herman chair for transportation at Regional Plan Association, talk about the ideas and proposals on how to undo the most harmful parts of Robert Moses' legacy, especially the expressways that have divided and polluted neighborhoods. 

"Reclaiming public space" isnt just about turning vacant lots into parks — or bulldozing homes for highways. And in a recent report, the Regional Plan Association of the tri-state area argues that the planning profession needs a new approach towards repurposing our land and giving residents more "psychological ownership" over their communities.  Check out RPA's recent case studies of how four U.S. cities are pushing the concept of "reclaiming public space" to new heights, then listen in to our conversation with Vanessa Barrios, the group's director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiatives to learn more. 

Tom Wright, President of the storied and influential Regional Plan Association of New York talks about their impact, current campaigns – and the future of the tri-state area. Tim is also joined by Niharika Shekhawat, an Urban Designer at Grimshaw's New York studio, to discuss how she interacts with the RPA's legacy in her own work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The price of parking meters is going up in Manhattan (other boroughs will soon follow suit). Henry Grabar, staff writer at Slate and the author of Paved Paradise: How Parking Explains the World (Penguin Press, 2023), and Rachel Weinberger, director, research strategy and Peter W. Herman Chair for Transportation at Regional Plan Association, talk about the parking landscape in New York City, including why so many streets have free parking, the amount of drivers fighting for limited spots and their suggested changes to the whole system.

Christopher Hahn is a well-known political consultant, attorney, and progressive pundit based in New York. He is also the host of the Aggressive Progressive Podcast on Revolver and a syndicated radio show. Hahn's expertise in dealing with public policy issues was honed during his five-year tenure as a senior aide to United States Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.). During that time, he dealt with post 9/11 Homeland Security activities, domestic policy, federal environmental matters, and economic development. He is also the former Chief Deputy County Executive for Nassau County, where he was responsible for directing and managing the daily administration, communications, and operations of county government. As the president and CEO of the United Way of Long Island, Hahn oversaw the operational management and fundraising activities of the organization. He completed the conversion to the national Community Impact Model by leading their strategic planning. Hahn is an avid runner, tri-athlete, and an accomplished improv comic. He earned his B.A. at the University at Albany and his J.D. at St. John's University School of Law. Hahn is a regular guest on national cable news and radio programs and has made numerous national television appearances on a variety of political, pop culture, and public policy topics. He serves on the boards of Stony Brook University, The Regional Plan Association of New York, New Jersey & Connecticut, and the NY League of Conservation Voters. Hahn's popularity and expertise have made him a highly sought-after political consultant and commentator in the United States.   Connect with Christopher: Website Podcast X   Connect with Carl: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn YouTube Website   Produced by: Social Chameleon

Josh Gottheimer, U.S. Representative (D, NJ-5), co-chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus, argues how New York's congestion pricing will take a toll on his Bergen County constituents. Then, Tom Wright, president and chief executive officer of the Regional Plan Association, explains a measure he's proposing in which New Jerseyans might stand to benefit.

This episode is also available as a blog post: https://thecitylife.org/2023/03/24/municipal-art-society-and-regional-plan-association-launch-interactive-webtool-and-release-report-on-citywide-environmental-review-process/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/citylifeorg/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/citylifeorg/support

Tom Wright is the CEO of the Regional Plan Association, an organization that brings together research, communities, and politicians to help plan the New York metropolitan region. He joined Future of Infrastructure host Jeremy Goldberg for a discussion of what they've learned by taking the long view of city and regional planning. This episode first aired on December 20, 2022, as part of Microsoft's Public Sector Future podcast Tom Wright RPA | Regional Plan Association Microsoft Public Sector Center of Expertise for more information and transcripts of all episodes Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at aka.ms/microsoft/podcasts

Tom Wright is the CEO of the Regional Plan Association, an organization that brings together research, communities, and politicians to help plan the New York metropolitan region. He joined Future of Infrastructure host Jeremy Goldberg for a discussion of what they've learned by taking the long view of city and regional planning. Tom Wright RPA | Regional Plan Association Microsoft Public Sector Center of Expertise for more information and transcripts of all episodes Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at aka.ms/microsoft/podcasts

Mayor Eric Adams has unveiled preliminary plans to fix the long-decrepit Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. Tiffany-Ann Taylor, vice president for transportation at the Regional Plan Association, assesses the new proposals and explains some of the expressway's most pressing issues.

New York's Penn Station is the busiest transport hub in the United States - as many as 650,000 people pass through it in a day. But this intercity hub is widely agreed to be outdated and unloved. Now there are plans to pour billions of dollars into a station facelift - in the hope it will attract Americans back to trains. In this episode, Laura Heighton-Ginns hears from key stakeholders Amtrak and the Regional Plan Association on why they believe a major overhaul is needed. Laura also takes a tour of the station and finds out about its much-admired predecessor - the Pennsylvania Station of the early 20th Century. And she explores the site of the planned demolition work, which controversially includes historical buildings and a busy community church. Presented and produced by Laura Heighton-Ginns. (Image: Penn Station scaffolding. Credit: BBC)

James Sanders, architect, author, filmmaker, and co-writer with Ric Burns of the eight part PBS series, "New York: A Documentary Film" and its companion volume, New York: An Illustrated History (Knopf, 2021), talks about the exhibition at Grand Central Terminal his studio produced and designed - to honor the centennial of the Regional Plan Association - called The Constant Future: A Century of the Regional Plan.→ The Constant Future: A Century of the Regional Plan will free and open to the public be through October 24th at Grand Central Terminal's Vanderbilt Hall.

The Brian Lehrer Show debuts a new occasional series we're calling the Brian Lehrer Show Editorial Board. First up, Nicole Gelinas, senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, a contributing editor of City Journal and a columnist at the New York Post; Emerita Torres, vice president of policy, research and advocacy at the Community Service Society of New York (CSS); and Rachel Weinberger, chair for transportation at Regional Plan Association (RPA), share their three varied views on congestion pricing.

Tom Wright, president and CEO of the Regional Plan Association, talks with Chip Barnett about the ongoing Gateway transportation project and its importance to the tri-state region. He also discusses the challenges and opportunities in transit, infrastructure, affordable housing, climate change and ESG. (30 minutes)

In this episode of Capital for Good we speak with Scott Rechler, the chairman and CEO of RXR, a leading real estate owner, investor, operator, and developer committed to building socially, economically, and environmentally responsible communities. In this conversation, Rechler draws on his extensive business and civic leadership experience to assess the state of New York's recovery from the pandemic. In addition to running one of the region's largest real estate development and infrastructure firms, he also serves or has served on the boards of the Port Authority, the MTA, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the Regional Plan Association, and played various roles in helping to rebuild lower Manhattan in the wake of the September 11 attacks. These different vantage points inform Rechler's view that we have entered a “great recalibration.” Our recovery, he notes, has occurred faster than we would have expected in the depths of the pandemic: “the most important barometer of the health of our city is the talent, the people,” he says, “and we've seen an incredible rebound.” At the same time, he cautions that the public, private, and nonprofit sectors still need to adjust to the significant structural changes that have occurred in how and where people live and work — and what this means for our commercial corridors, residential communities, the infrastructure that connects and supports them, and “sustainable, equitable growth” going forward. We also discuss what responsible business looks like in the context of real estate. Rechler explains that his firm's motto, “doing good and doing well means doing better,” is about building more sustainable, socially responsible, and equitable communities. In addition to a focus on clean energy and decarbonization goals, RXR forges partnerships with local government, civic, religious, and labor organizations, and small businesses as part of every business plan and project. We end with a discussion of New York's future. Gone are the days of “winners and losers” and “city versus suburb,” Rechler says. New York's status as a “superstar city,” depends on a healthy and symbiotic relationship with a “superstar region.”  Thanks for listening! Subscribe to Capital for Good on Apple, Amazon, Google, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Drop us a line at socialenterprise@gsb.columbia.edu. Mentioned in this Episode RXR ESG Report “Signs of Progress: NYC's Economic Recovery,” (Partnership for New York City, 2022) Recalibrate Reality With Scott Rechler

This week on Transit Unplugged News & Views, Paul is talking with Tom Wright of the Regional Plan Association (RPA) about planning for the future in the New York Metropolitan area (New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut). Over its 100 year history, RPA has put a stake in the ground for what needs to be done to build and sustain the region. As Tom says, all of their recommendations are implemented--eventually. Tom talks about the RPA vision for what's needed in the region to grow in the post-pandemic era and how cities, states, and the U.S. federal government need to look at and coordinate their efforts. The region is already behind the eight ball to catch up, it will take a lot of work to put things on track. Also on this week's show: Transit news of the week including news about frequent guests Mark Wilde and Julie Timm Elea Carey on communicating planning and change Mike Bismeyer wants to hear your leadership stories If you want to stay in touch make sure you sign up for email updates on the website. If you have a question, comment, or would like to be a guest on Transit Unplugged, email us at info@transitunplugged.com

Brian Fritsch of the Regional Plan Association discusses the projected rise of mass transit ridership with Steve Scott and Michael Wallace on WCBS 880

Three experts joined the show to discuss Hurricane Ida's impact in New York City, climate change, resiliency, policy-making, and where we go next. Guests: Maritza Silva-Farrell of ALIGN, Danny Harris of Transportation Alternatives, & Rob Freudenberg of Regional Plan Association.

Joe Connolly and Neil A. Carousso talk to developer Scott Rechler, chairman of RXR Realty and The Regional Plan Association on this week's Small Business Spotlight. Watch the full conversation about New York's post-pandemic future at WCBS880.com/Spotlight. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Connolly and Neil A. Carousso talk to developer Scott Rechler, chairman of RXR Realty and The Regional Plan Association on this week's Small Business Spotlight. Watch the full conversation about New York's post-pandemic future at WCBS880.com/Spotlight. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Connolly and Neil A. Carousso talk to developer Scott Rechler, chairman of RXR Realty and The Regional Plan Association on this week's Small Business Spotlight. Watch the full conversation about New York's post-pandemic future at WCBS880.com/Spotlight. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Time to take this thing regional.  We've been focusing a lot on the individual cities, but our friend Patrick Geddes opened up the world of planning to this crazy idea that we should start thinking about our places in the context of other places, and Boston, Ohio, New York, and Los Angeles apparently got the memos.  Mind.  Blown. Cities in Evolution:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Geddeshttps://archive.org/details/citiesinevolutio00gedduoft/page/n17/mode/2up?ref=ol&view=theater https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conurbation https://www.researchgate.net/publication/290334248_Patrick_Geddes_and_cities_in_evolution_The_writing_and_the_readings_of_an_intempestive_classic Miami Conservancy District of Ohio:https://www.mcdwater.org/about-mcd-2/the-history-of-mcd/ Boston Metropolitan District Commission:https://www.cityofboston.gov/images_documents/Metropolitan%20District%20Commission%20(MDC)%20Building%20Study%20Report_tcm3-17378.pdf Los Angeles County Regional Planning Commissionhttps://planning.lacounty.gov/about Regional Plan of New York and its Environs:https://rpa.org/work/reports/regional-plan-of-new-york-and-its-environshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regional_Plan_Association

In this special edition of 92Y Talks, we are launching a new series with the Regional Plan Association called Recalibrate Reality: The Future of New York, hosted by Scott Rechler, chair of RPA and RXR Realty. The series will feature conversations with top leaders in government, business, transportation, hospitality, arts, and other key sectors, with the goal of answering the question: How do We Recalibrate Reality to Create a Better and Brighter Future for New York. The first episode features Scott in conversation with New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Listen here and subscribe to the Recalibrate Reality podcast for future episodes at RecalibrateReality.com.

As part of the TAP Series, we are presenting this week, the Chair of The President's Circle, Marcia Bateson.Marcia has close to three decades of experience in strategic, leadership and managerial, roles for corporations and not-for profit organizations. Since 2002, Marcia has worked with top organizations, not-for-profits and Fortune 50 financial firms. She advises on strategy, organizational redesign, business, operational and financial solutions to major issues and guides toward risk-mitigated implementation.​As CFO for JPMorgan Partners Marcia overhauled its outdated infrastructure and integrated 6 acquisitions while keeping the division fully operational. She served as COO of JPM’s Asset Management  where she re-engineered the business and financial infrastructure - which increased profit by 2.5X on flat revenue. When JPM sold Securities Services to BoNY, as COO, she managed the transfer of $1T  in securities, 800 clients, and 800 professionals.Marcia graduated from Vassar College phi beta kappa. She currently serves on multiple boards including NR-International, The Regional Plan Association, Holton-Arms School, Ceres Presidents Council, and she is active in the investment community in New York City.Learn more about Marcia and TAP at:MARCIA BATESON (theaccelerationproject.org)

After a career in management consulting, marketing and strategy, Jane was determined to apply her professional skills to make an impact in the local economy.  Jane saw both the need and the opportunity:  The need arose from small businesses with great ideas and passion but a lack of resources and expertise.  The opportunity existed in the enormous pool of professionals who had a strong desire to redeploy their business acumen.   She built TAP to harness the untapped potential of both small businesses and local professionals.Jane is mission-driven, seeking to mobilize women for economic impact, and merges her business acumen with her management, coaching, public sector and nonprofit work. Prior to TAP, Jane spent her career in strategy and marketing, working at Bain & Company, American Express, and as an independent consultant.  She also has experience in private equity and venture capital as an investor and board member.  Jane currently serves as a Scarsdale Village Trustee.  She has also held civic leadership positions as Chair of the Scarsdale Planning Board, President of the League of Women Voters of Scarsdale, Chair of SNAP, and President of the Fox Meadow Neighborhood Association.  In recognition of her sustained and significant impact on the community, she received the Mayor’s Award for Exceptional Leadership the Daily Point of Light Award granted by Points of Light, the organization founded by President George H.W. Bush to recognize volunteer service.Jane has been a member of numerous boards and currently serves on Harvard’s Women Leadership Board, the Harvard Business School Alumni Board, the Regional Plan Association, the Scarsdale Foundation, and the Yale Westchester Alumni Association.  She is also a member of Golden Seeds and Harvard Angels.  Jane earned a BA magna cum laude from Yale University and an MBA with honors from Harvard Business School.  Learn more about Jane and The acceleration project at:HOME (theaccelerationproject.org) 

This episode focuses on the Triboro Subway Proposal, through conversation with the Regional Plan Association's (RPA) Vanessa Barrios, Maulin Mehta, and Moses Gates. RPA has built support for the Triboro since 1996 and continues to advocate for this transformative infrastructure project for The Bronx, Queens, & Brooklyn: 'Running 24 miles on existing track from Co-op City in the Bronx to Bay Ridge in Brooklyn, the Triboro would be an above-ground rail line connecting 17 subway lines and 4 commuter lines.' Today's interview also touches upon the most recent federal budget allocations for public transit, public transit advocacy, and other proposed transit and planning programs for the Bronx. Vanessa Barrios is Senior Associate, State Programs & Advocacy @ RPA Maulin Mehta is Senior Associate, State Programs & Advocacy @RPA Moses Gates is Vice President for Housing and Neighborhood Planning @RPA For more on the Triboro: https://rpa.org/work/reports/the-triboro https://citylimits.org/2019/06/19/call-to-study-new-transit-line-linking-bronx-queens-and-brooklyn/

Paula had the pleasure of sitting down with Rick Thigpen (SVP of Corporate Citizenship at PSEG) to chat all things black leadership, Rick's background on Wall St which led him into politics, and his current position at PSEG For all things AABE, subscribe to this podcast and follow us on social media @AABE www.aabe.org About Rick Thigpen: Richard T. Thigpen was named senior vice president – Corporate Citizenship in July 2018. Mr. Thigpen is also chairman of the PSEG Foundation. He is responsible for areas of the business that drive public policy through advocacy, including federal, state and local government affairs, sustainability, charitable activities and corporate social responsibility. Mr. Thigpen is a member of PSEG’s Executive Officer Group. Mr. Thigpen joined PSEG in March 2007 as vice president –State Governmental Affairs of PSEG Services Corp. He has been a public affairs consultant since 1999 and was a co-founding partner of 1868 Public Affairs, which provides lobbying, strategic planning, public relations and government relations services to clients in New Jersey, New York and Washington, D.C. Previously, Mr. Thigpen served as an associate at the New York law firm of Thacher Proffitt and Wood in the mortgage-backed securities practice group (1988 to 1990), was district director for U.S. Rep. Don Payne (NJ-10) (1990 to 1996) and executive director of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee (1996 to 1999). He also has served as a political analyst for New Jersey Network and as an academic associate for PublicMind, Fairleigh Dickinson University Polling and Survey Research Institute. Mr. Thigpen also was a former assistant to the president of the NAACP State Conference for Public Affairs. He is currently a member of the boards of the Regional Plan Association, the New Jersey Climate Change Alliance, the New Jersey Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, New Jersey Television, the Brown University Alumni Association and the New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund. He also is a member of the American Association of Blacks in Energy’s national board and chair of the Legislative Issues and Public Policy Committee. Mr. Thigpen holds a Doctor of Law degree from Columbia University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Brown University.

Scott Rechler is the CEO of RXR Realty, served on the Board of Directors for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, served as Vice Chairman of Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and is Chairman of the Regional Plan Association. An expert on real estate development and operations, Scott has a unique perspective on what the future of work looks like - both how offices will look, and how teams will collaborate. In this episode, we start with a far-out visioning exercise about how the world will transform, and draw out lessons on leading today, leading through transformation, and being a good citizen.

Scott Rechler is the CEO of RXR Realty, served on the Board of Directors for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, served as Vice Chairman of Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and is Chairman of the Regional Plan Association. An expert on real estate development and operations, Scott has a unique perspective on what the future of work looks like - both how offices will look, and how teams will collaborate. In this episode, we start with a far-out visioning exercise about how the world will transform, and draw out lessons on leading today, leading through transformation, and being a good citizen.

Join us for a walking tour… of the future! On today’s episode, co-host and transit nerd Dan will bring us on a walking tour of Bay Ridge and Sunset Park in an alternate future where The Triboro has been built... a proposed passenger rail line running along the old train tracks north of Bay Ridge. But it's not just about a rail line. We'll explore multiple ways that communities can regain control over their local development, and push for a vision of their neighborhood that promotes equity and sustainability. This includes mixed-use development, local job creation, Community Land Trusts, eco-friendly development, and more. And at the end, we'll tie it all together with an interview with the folks at the Regional Plan Association, who proposed The Triboro back in the 90's! Sit in and relax as we explore an idealized future of our neighborhood, and what it might become if we take development out of the hands of developers. ---- Check out the show notes for background info and bonus materialBe sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for more news and analysis!  

Is Public Transportation Dead? That is the question that CTDOT Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Rich Andreski and his guests Garrett Eucalitto, Deputy Commissioner at CTDOT and Melissa Kaplan-Macey, Vice President, State Programs & Connecticut Director for Regional Plan Association address in this inaugural episode of Along the Lines. Their discussion covers what's trending for public transportation in the COVID-19 era and what it means to transit riders in the region. Listen. Share. Subscribe.

In the midst of a crisis it can be healthy to think of what comes after.  In this episode of Here's the Thing, two of the most influential New Yorkers when it comes to long-term economic planning join Alec to discuss whether the current economic crisis will end quickly when businesses can reopen, or whether instead it's the start of a longer decline.  Kathryn Wylde is a veteran of the urban renewal battles of the 1980s and currently the head of the city's elite business consortium, the Partnership for New York City.  She worries that what makes New York special will now be associated with the spread of disease: its dense population and communal spaces like theaters, museums, bars, and vibrant workplaces.  Tom Wright's organization, the influential Regional Plan Association, is reshaping its long-term vision for the city based on the potential for reduced growth -- but Wright says that New York is well positioned to get back on track thanks to its experience overcoming past crises like 9/11 and Hurricane Sandy.

Babbu talks a lot about the Gateway Project. It's basically the MBTA getting a massive overhaul, but for millions more people. It's a lifeline to New York and New Jersey that can keep him up at night if something goes wrong. So he invited Brian Fritsch of the Regional Plan Association (7:48) to coach the bhoys on a few things about it. No, it won't collapse soon, but how many bodies will it take for it to finally matter? Who knows. Here's a video explaining Gateway Project's Hudson Tunnel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJi2-I18kW4&frags=pl%2Cwn And one on the Gateway Project's Portal Bridge https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ty7F3bOjkZU

Episode 42. Greg Lindsay chats with Rachel Weinberger, Senior Fellow for Transportation at the Regional Plan Association in New York, about congestion pricing in the Big Apple. New York is the first city in the US to adopt the policy and Dr. Rachel Weinberger walks us through the plan's implementation, revisiting best practices gathered from urban environments like Singapore, London and Stockholm, and explaining why congestion pricing in New York is a progressive tax which can help both alleviate congestion and fund public transit.

Episode 42. Greg Lindsay chats with Rachel Weinberger, Senior Fellow for Transportation at the Regional Plan Association in New York, about congestion pricing in the Big Apple. New York is the first city in the US to adopt the policy and Dr. Rachel Weinberger walks us through the plan's implementation, revisiting best practices gathered from urban environments like Singapore, London and Stockholm, and explaining why congestion pricing in New York is a progressive tax which can help both alleviate congestion and fund public transit.

What would happen if one or both rail tunnels connecting New Jersey to Penn Station in New York were to close? The Regional Plan Association has examined that potential nightmare situation and made a presentation Monday evening. Hear more in this report from Cranford Radio.

Host: Nancy May, President and CEO, BoardBench CompaniesGuest: John S. Griswald, Founder & Senior Advisor, Emeritus, CommonFound Institute emeritus.Senior Consultant, Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges (ABG)Universities, large trusts, and foundations are better able to fulfill their responsibilities under the leadership of strong, competent boards. Critical to these organizations’ continued sustainability are the skills, values, and financial competence of those who serve on these boards.Far too many institutions, large or small, rely on the criterion; "who can write a check" in their director selection process. Exceptional universities, healthcare groups, trusts and foundations know that having the strength, competency, and constitution to make the right financial decisions is what keeps the doors open…and more! Learn more about how the smart boardrooms of prominent institutions lead in this podcast with Nancy May and John Griswold. John S. Griswold As head of the Commonfund Institute, John Griswold directed investor education and market research activities for this nonprofit investment management company. His current work with AGB involves consulting with boards and committees regarding governance, endowment investment, and fulfilling fiduciary responsibilities.He initiated and supervised the Commonfund Benchmarks Studies® of the performance of educational endowments, foundations, operating charities, and healthcare institutions. These studies collectively surveyed the investment performance and practices of hundreds of nonprofit institutions each year. In addition, he supervised and has spoken at the Commonfund’s Annual Endowment Institute at Yale University, the Commonfund Forum, and nonprofit and investment industry conferences in the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Canada.John is the author of numerous articles and book chapters on endowment management,board and committee governance, and managing investment committees. He has been a respected member or trustee of numerous non-profit boards and investment committees, including BoardSource (former Chair), The Boys and Girls Clubs of America, and the Regional Plan Association of New York, among other well respected organizations.He is currently a Member-at-Large of the U.S. Advocacy Advisory Committee of the CFA Institute and is engaged in public pension board training with CFAI, CalPERS and the Council of Institutional Investors. For more information on this show and others, please go to BoardBench.com and our contact page.Additional Notes:ABCs of Governance: How increased complexity in the world of NFP and mission-driven governance is impacted by legal, compliance, and other regulatory issues.Endowment Investing: CIO Roundtable discussion about the past, present and future of endowment financial leadership.Disclaimer: This program is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal advice. Always seek the guidance and advice from a licensed attorney on the matters discussed in this show. The views, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this show are those of the show Guest and not directly those of BoardBench Companies, LLC. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Corey Johnson wants to be the next mayor of New York, and the press seems to think he will be.  His plan to fix transit is the centerpiece of his platform.  Tom Wright is the CEO of the powerful Regional Plan Association.  That organization imagines the future and comes up with ideas for infrastructure and bureaucracy that could meet its needs.  Nicole Gelinas, a reporter and a Manhattan Institute scholar of Urban Economics, also believes in big, innovative projects.  But for the past 15 years, she's been reminding New Yorkers that we will not get a transit system worthy of our great city if we cannot get costs under control, and our financial house in order.  Combine these three experts with Alec's curiosity and strong opinions about all things New York, and you get a great conversation about congestion pricing, organized labor, the MTA, and future of transportation everywhere.

The data point for today is 1981, the year in which the State Legislature enacted S7000A, the landmark bill that formalized the current property tax system for New York City. A response to the Hellerstein case, which found the system was in violation of State law, S7000A essentially codified the status quo. In doing so, it established a system of property classification, fractional assessments, caps, phase-ins, and class shares that is still with us 37 years later. These structural features and statutory requirements are the root of the system’s inequities and complexities. A home worth $500,000 can face the same tax bill as a home worth $1.5 million, while the value of a condominium unit, according to the City, is a fraction of its sale price. In fact, some buildings have values that are below the sale price of individual units. And commercial and rental property faces a higher average property tax burden than 1-, 2- and 3-family homes. These inequities and problems have led to repeated calls for reform, including pending litigation. This past May, Mayor de Blasio and Speaker Johnson formed the Advisory Commission on Property Tax Reform. In September, the Citizens Budget Commission, the Regional Plan Association, and NYU Robert Wagner School of Public Service held a panel to discuss the problem, inequities and potential reforms

1996 is the last time a comprehensive regional plan was issued by the Regional Plan Association. Special guest Chris Jones, Senior Vice President and Chief Planner at RPA, joined the podcast to discuss the 4th Regional Plan, which was released last month. The plan contains 61 separate recommendations in four action areas that represent major challenges and areas of opportunity.

This week we're examining the impacts of federal housing finance policy, Chuck is joined by Christopher Jones and Sarah Serpas of Regional Plan Association, a New York-based non-profit organization that recently released a report titled The Unintended Consequences of Housing Finance.  You can follow our ongoing conversation on housing finance at www.strongtowns.org/housing.

The Steven L. Newman Real Estate Institute at Baruch College with Manhattan Borough President Scott M. Stringer presents "Banking on the Future: A New Paradigm for Rebuilding Our Nation's Infrastructure". The program brings together notable experts and thought leaders who broadly examine national, regional and state infrastructure bank concepts and forward-thinking proposals, followed by focused discussions on clean energy, transportation and high speed rail, private and pension investments for the public good, the labor force and jobs creation. The event takes place on March 14, 2011 at the Baruch College Newman Conference Center, Room 750. [Part I -- 55 min.] Remarks: Jack Nyman Director of the Steven L. Newman Real Estate Institute at Baruch College Mitchel B. Wallerstein, President, Baruch College Honorable Scott M. Stringer, Manhattan Borough President Honorable Steve Israel US House of Representatives, 2nd Congressional District of NY Panel Discussion: Mitchell L. Moss, Moderator Director, Rudin Center for Transportation Policy & Management, New York University Honorable Rosa DeLauro US House of Representatives, 3rd Congressional District of CT Honorable Edward G. Rendell Former Governor, State of Pennsylvania Felicity B. Gates Co-Head, Citi Infrastructure Investors Christopher O. Ward Executive Director, NY-NJ Port Authority Honorable Jerrold Nadler Us House of Representatives, 8th Congressional District of NY Bernard L. Schwartz Chairman & CEO, BLS Investments, LLP [Part II -- 59 min.] Remarks by the Honorable Jerrold Nadler A panel discussion on "Infrastructure of the Future: Transportation and High Speed Rail" Robert E. Paaswell Director Emeritus, Region II University Transportation Research Center, City University of New York Moderator Stanley Gee Executive Deputy Commissioner, NYS Department of Transportation Ya-Ting Liu Federal Advocate, Tri-State Transportation Campaign Manfred Ohrenstein Partner, Ohrenstein & Brown, LLP Petra Todorovich Director, America 2050 Regional Plan Association Christopher J. Taylor Deputy Director - High Speed Rail, AECOM

The Steven L. Newman Real Estate Institute at Baruch College with Manhattan Borough President Scott M. Stringer presents "Banking on the Future: A New Paradigm for Rebuilding Our Nation's Infrastructure". The program brings together notable experts and thought leaders who broadly examine national, regional and state infrastructure bank concepts and forward-thinking proposals, followed by focused discussions on clean energy, transportation and high speed rail, private and pension investments for the public good, the labor force and jobs creation. The event takes place on March 14, 2011 at the Baruch College Newman Conference Center, Room 750. [Part I -- 55 min.] Remarks: Jack Nyman Director of the Steven L. Newman Real Estate Institute at Baruch College Mitchel B. Wallerstein, President, Baruch College Honorable Scott M. Stringer, Manhattan Borough President Honorable Steve Israel US House of Representatives, 2nd Congressional District of NY Panel Discussion: Mitchell L. Moss, Moderator Director, Rudin Center for Transportation Policy & Management, New York University Honorable Rosa DeLauro US House of Representatives, 3rd Congressional District of CT Honorable Edward G. Rendell Former Governor, State of Pennsylvania Felicity B. Gates Co-Head, Citi Infrastructure Investors Christopher O. Ward Executive Director, NY-NJ Port Authority Honorable Jerrold Nadler Us House of Representatives, 8th Congressional District of NY Bernard L. Schwartz Chairman & CEO, BLS Investments, LLP [Part II -- 59 min.] Remarks by the Honorable Jerrold Nadler A panel discussion on "Infrastructure of the Future: Transportation and High Speed Rail" Robert E. Paaswell Director Emeritus, Region II University Transportation Research Center, City University of New York Moderator Stanley Gee Executive Deputy Commissioner, NYS Department of Transportation Ya-Ting Liu Federal Advocate, Tri-State Transportation Campaign Manfred Ohrenstein Partner, Ohrenstein & Brown, LLP Petra Todorovich Director, America 2050 Regional Plan Association Christopher J. Taylor Deputy Director - High Speed Rail, AECOM

The Steven L. Newman Real Estate Institute at Baruch College with Manhattan Borough President Scott M. Stringer presents "Banking on the Future: A New Paradigm for Rebuilding Our Nation's Infrastructure". The program brings together notable experts and thought leaders who broadly examine national, regional and state infrastructure bank concepts and forward-thinking proposals, followed by focused discussions on clean energy, transportation and high speed rail, private and pension investments for the public good, the labor force and jobs creation. The event takes place on March 14, 2011 at the Baruch College Newman Conference Center, Room 750. [Part I -- 55 min.] Remarks: Jack Nyman Director of the Steven L. Newman Real Estate Institute at Baruch College Mitchel B. Wallerstein, President, Baruch College Honorable Scott M. Stringer, Manhattan Borough President Honorable Steve Israel US House of Representatives, 2nd Congressional District of NY Panel Discussion: Mitchell L. Moss, Moderator Director, Rudin Center for Transportation Policy & Management, New York University Honorable Rosa DeLauro US House of Representatives, 3rd Congressional District of CT Honorable Edward G. Rendell Former Governor, State of Pennsylvania Felicity B. Gates Co-Head, Citi Infrastructure Investors Christopher O. Ward Executive Director, NY-NJ Port Authority Honorable Jerrold Nadler Us House of Representatives, 8th Congressional District of NY Bernard L. Schwartz Chairman & CEO, BLS Investments, LLP [Part II -- 59 min.] Remarks by the Honorable Jerrold Nadler A panel discussion on "Infrastructure of the Future: Transportation and High Speed Rail" Robert E. Paaswell Director Emeritus, Region II University Transportation Research Center, City University of New York Moderator Stanley Gee Executive Deputy Commissioner, NYS Department of Transportation Ya-Ting Liu Federal Advocate, Tri-State Transportation Campaign Manfred Ohrenstein Partner, Ohrenstein & Brown, LLP Petra Todorovich Director, America 2050 Regional Plan Association Christopher J. Taylor Deputy Director - High Speed Rail, AECOM

The Steven L. Newman Real Estate Institute at Baruch College with Manhattan Borough President Scott M. Stringer presents "Banking on the Future: A New Paradigm for Rebuilding Our Nation's Infrastructure". The program brings together notable experts and thought leaders who broadly examine national, regional and state infrastructure bank concepts and forward-thinking proposals, followed by focused discussions on clean energy, transportation and high speed rail, private and pension investments for the public good, the labor force and jobs creation. The event takes place on March 14, 2011 at the Baruch College Newman Conference Center, Room 750. [Part I -- 55 min.] Remarks: Jack Nyman Director of the Steven L. Newman Real Estate Institute at Baruch College Mitchel B. Wallerstein, President, Baruch College Honorable Scott M. Stringer, Manhattan Borough President Honorable Steve Israel US House of Representatives, 2nd Congressional District of NY Panel Discussion: Mitchell L. Moss, Moderator Director, Rudin Center for Transportation Policy & Management, New York University Honorable Rosa DeLauro US House of Representatives, 3rd Congressional District of CT Honorable Edward G. Rendell Former Governor, State of Pennsylvania Felicity B. Gates Co-Head, Citi Infrastructure Investors Christopher O. Ward Executive Director, NY-NJ Port Authority Honorable Jerrold Nadler Us House of Representatives, 8th Congressional District of NY Bernard L. Schwartz Chairman & CEO, BLS Investments, LLP [Part II -- 59 min.] Remarks by the Honorable Jerrold Nadler A panel discussion on "Infrastructure of the Future: Transportation and High Speed Rail" Robert E. Paaswell Director Emeritus, Region II University Transportation Research Center, City University of New York Moderator Stanley Gee Executive Deputy Commissioner, NYS Department of Transportation Ya-Ting Liu Federal Advocate, Tri-State Transportation Campaign Manfred Ohrenstein Partner, Ohrenstein & Brown, LLP Petra Todorovich Director, America 2050 Regional Plan Association Christopher J. Taylor Deputy Director - High Speed Rail, AECOM

Author Tony Hiss (Experience of Place), talks with Bob Yaro, president of the Regional Plan Association about his new paperback edition of In Motion: The Experience of Travel. Hiss and Yaro discuss how planners can take on the role of stewards of Deep Travel.

New York City has been transformed in the past decade by a construction boom, which created not just office buildings but lots of new condos. The recession put an end to the rapid growth. Construction has dropped 22 percent since 2008. But as the industry begins to show signs of life again, there is a fight developing between developers and their carpenters, concrete workers, and other unionized employees. Nearly two dozen labor contracts are set to expire at the end of this month, and the negotiations are bogged down as builders ask for concessions from unions. Danny Massey is a reporter with Crain's New York Business, and attended a discussion on Thursday sponsored by the Regional Plan Association, where both sides were represented. He said negotiations were tense."At this stage of the game, three weeks before the expiration of some two dozen contracts, it seems like there is such an incredible gulf between these two sides," he said, "that doesn't really seem evident now how it's going to be resolved."Massey explains what's at stake in this latest round of negotiations, and what it could mean for the city's construction industry. Markets Markets rose on Thursday. The Dow climbed 75 points, to close at 12,124. The S&P 500 was up nine points, closing at 1,289. The NASDAQ also rose nine points, to close at 2,685.

The Patchwork Nation project has classified each of America's 3,142 counties into 12 categories. We'll discuss Hampton Roads' dominant designation of 'Military Bastion' and consider the question of regional identity as we look ahead to Hampton Roads Vision Regional Day on May 6th. Guests: Dante Chinni, project director of Patchwork Nation, Alex Marshall, senior fellow at the Regional Plan Association, and Dana Dickens, President and CEO of the Hampton Roads Partnership.

iona college, infrastructure, terex, roads, bridges, public transportation

Session 3 Wed. April 7, 2010 Seizing Opportunities: Waterfront Works in Progress Moderator: Dr. Melissa Checker, Queens College, CUNY Speakers/Panelists Robert Pirani, Regional Plan Association and Governors Island Alliance––Governors Island Kate Van Tassel, NYCEDC and Miquela Craytor, Sustainable South Bronx––South Bronx Greenway Ambassador William J. vanden Heuvel, Four Freedoms Park Nancy Webster, Acting Executive-Director, Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy Joshua Laird, Asst. Commissioner, NYC Parks and Recreation Background In 1609, New York’s future waterfront was an arcadian shore of forests, wetlands, beaches, and sand bars, according to Eric Sanderson's book Mannahatta. That landscape is lost forever, but visions of a post-industrial, neo-natural waterfront are longstanding. In 1944, futurists Paul and Percival Goodman proposed that Manhattan "open out toward the water," lining its gritty waterfront with new parks. They were prescient: today the water’s edge of Manhattan is evolving from a "no-man's-land" into a "highly desirable zone of parks," in the words of writer Phillip Lopate. The newly designated "Manhattan Waterfront Greenway" is cobbled together from many bits and pieces like Battery Park City, Hudson River Park, Riverside Park South, restored Harlem River parks, and tiny Stuyvesant Cove Park––each with its own chronicle of past and present struggles among property owners, community groups, developers, politicians, planners, lawyers, and other stakeholders. Elsewhere in the city, Brooklyn Bridge Park, the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway, Governors Island, the South Bronx Greenway, Pelham Bay South Waterfront Park, the Bronx River Greenway, and Gateway National Recreation Area are among many waterfront works in progress. The colloquium series will address selected topics and issues relating to what has been achieved and what remains to be done to continue the transformation of New York’s waterfronts.

Robert Pirani is Regional Plan Association's Director of Environmental Programs and Executive Director of the Governors Island Alliance. His responsibilities include developing and directing programs in parks and open space advocacy, land use management, water quality protection, and recycling and waste prevention. The nation's oldest regional planning organization, Regional Plan Association has worked since 1929 to improve the quality of life in the 31-county, 13,000 square mile New York/New Jersey/Connecticut metropolitan area. On the basis of professional research, the Association recommends policy improvements, fosters cooperation among various government and private organizations, and involves the public in considering and shaping its own future. The Governors Island Alliance is a coalition of civic, environmental, and preservation organizations working to celebrate the Island’s rich history, create memorable parks and public spaces, and ensure appropriate reuse of the Island and its historic structures. Before coming to RPA in 1986, Mr. Pirani worked as a county planner in western Massachusetts and for several national and regional environmental organizations, including the Sierra Club, the Connecticut River Watershed Council, and the National Audubon Society. Mr. Pirani holds a Master's Degree in Regional Planning from Cornell University and a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Studies from Hampshire College.