Informed and Empowered: How Elections Influence the Built Environment

Join the AIANY Civic Leadership Program (CLP) for an inside look at the policymaking process, using the recent and emerging developments around congestion pricing as a case study. The conversation will incorporate expert analysis, audience participation, and actionable next steps on how changes in administration impact the built environment in the long term.  

Speakers will analyze past, present, and future challenges and opportunities brought on by electoral changes, addressing topics such as sustainability, infrastructure, urban planning, research, and development. A moderated Q&A will follow the panel, offering audience members the opportunity to articulate their concerns and to be empowered with strategies for change at the local, state, and federal level.   

The evening will conclude with a town hall aimed to address personal hopes and fears for the future under changing administrations. The CLP cohort seeks to create an educational environment that promotes listening, dialogue, and support.  

Speakers:
Brian Fritsch, Associate Director, Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA (PCAC)
Sara Lind, Co-Executive Director, Open Plans 
Jean Ryan, President, Disabled in Action of Metropolitan New York
Rachel Weinberger, Ph.D., Director of Research Strategy and Peter W. Herman Chair for Transportation, Regional Plan Association (RPA)

About the AIANY Civic Leadership Program
The AIANY Civic Leadership Program (CLP) is designed to cultivate design professionals into civic leaders. Through a six-month mentorship and training program, ten designers develop skills to engage in the civic process. The CLP provides opportunities to interface with government officials, community development organizations, and local stakeholders through development sessions and public events. The program also provides opportunities to improve communication and public speaking skills and engage in community outreach and consensus building.