Tuesday, October 23
8:00am-4:00 pm Pre-Conference Training
NACTO Transit Street Design Guide Training :: Presented by the Capital District Transportation Committee
The Transit Street Design Guide Training develops a strong rationale that cities cannot grow sustainably and equitably without a robust and efficient transit system, and that the most cost-effective way to integrate transit into the urban infrastructure is through on-street design interventions at all scales. The Training covers core themes, technical street and intersection design guidance, in-depth discussion of transit stations and stops, and illustrations of how design strategies cohere into effective and inviting transit streets.
The first half of the day provides an overview of the principles and case-making elements for designing streets for transit, and then dives deep into the NACTO Transit Street Design Guide. The training dives into contextual guidance, technical design details, and performance measures, drawn from the Guide and supported by case studies from NACTO member cities and their transit agencies.
During the second half of the day, participants apply the lessons learned in the morning to a hands-on design charrette. Attendees are broken into groups and encouraged to directly apply the toolkit in the Guide to a specific corridor or street section. They may be assigned roles within their groups by mode (e.g. transit operations, typical cross-sections, pedestrian & bicycle interactions), and may be assigned specific locations within a larger study area.
The training includes a copy of the NACTO Transit Street Design Guide.
3:00-5:00 pm Conference & Expo Check-in
5:00-7:00pm Early Arrival Reception
Wednesday, October 24
6:30am Registration Desk Open
7:30am-12:30pm Transit Industry Expo
8:30-9:50am Opening Session
Straphanger :: Taras Grescoe, Author
Moving to and from work, school, and play is something we all do every day. Award-winning author and globetrotting travel writer Taras Grescoe will share stories from his book, Straphanger, taking us on a journey through some of the world’s greatest cities — from Paris to Tokyo, and via NY, LA, and Vancouver, to Bogotá and Moscow — to look at what they are doing right, and wrong, with their transport systems. In a time of generational change, when people are looking for alternatives to car-centric planning, Grescoe will present some of the most interesting transportation alternatives he’s encountered in his years of traveling and discuss how those ideas can be applied to American cities. It’s an inspiring glimpse of how convenient, affordable and sustainable transport can make the cities we love into more livable places.
10:00-10:50am Concurrent Sessions
LEADERSHIP TRACK
Organizational Change – Reimagine RTS: Re-Thinking the Transit System in Rochester :: Julie Tolar, Director of Service Planning, RTS
The public transit system in Monroe County was designed decades ago when downtown Rochester was the center of our community from every perspective – economically, residentially and culturally. Since then, the demographics of the area have changed, the locations of employment centers have changed, and the number of available mobility options has changed. With the emergence of new transportation options such as bike sharing, car sharing, ride sharing and vanpools, it is no longer the case that public transit and the personal automobile are the community’s only options to reach their destinations. This has created a new reality for public transit. This presentation will discuss the Reimagine RTS planning process currently underway that is exploring changes to the RTS fixed-route transit system to better meet the changing needs of the Rochester region.
MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS TRACK
Part I: Driving Electric Without Stopping to Charge :: John Hroncich, Business Development Director, BAE Systems
Operators are looking to integrate electric buses into their fleets quickly, but the infrastructure can be a bit overwhelming. An electric-range hybrid will provide electric travel without the need to stop and charge. Zero emission zones can get your operation on the path to all-electric.
Part II: Electric Bus Innovations :: David Warren, Director of Sustainable Transportation, New Flyer of America
Learn about New Flyer electric buses, along with garage and route charging.
RTAP/MOBILITY MANAGEMENT TRACK
Part I: First and Last Mile Mobility: Emerging TNC Partnerships with Transit Operators :: Naomi Klein, Director, Craig Lader, Principal Planner, Westchester County DPW
This session will be an overview of the emerging partnerships between transit agencies, municipalities, how transportation network companies help overcome gaps in first mile/last mile connectivity, and the barriers to implementing such partnerships.
Part II: Regional Bikeshare: A Mobility Management Solution :: Lauren Bailey, Mobility Manager, CDTA
CDTA rolled out the Capital Region’s premiere bike-share program in 2017, CDPHP Cycle! Learn how CDTA has used bikeshare to unite the Capital Region, create a sustainable transportation option, and change the way the area views cycling.
11:00-11:50am Transit Industry Expo
12:00-1:30pm Transit Industry Luncheon – 2018 NYPTA Hall of Fame Induction and PTLI Graduation
Celebrate the achievements of latest class of Public Transit Leadership Institute graduates as they complete a year of learning to further their careers in the transit industry. The celebration continues as we honor leaders in the public transit industry who will be inducted into the NYPTA Hall of Fame:
 Frank KobliskiFormer Executive Director CNYRTA |
 Gordon NevisonFormer President The Nevison Group |
 Hilary RingFormer Deputy Senior Director MTA Business Service Center |
 Cynthia RuizFormer Transit Director Dutchess County |
1:40-2:30pm Concurrent Sessions
LEADERSHIP TRACK
Creating Innovative Mobility Management Solutions – Growing Ridership, Accessibility and Partnerships :: Jonathan Scherzer, Director of Marketing, CDTA
This session will cover the methodology behind bulk Universal Access ridership programs, growing fare payment options through technology and mobility advancements. We will review results that lead to improved system access along with building the partnerships to insure community relevance.
MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS TRACK
Part I: Managing a Safe, Successful Transit Fleet :: Jason Palmer, COO, SmartDrive Systems
Transit agencies must provide a great ride for passengers and also ensure their safety within defined regulations. Sophisticated and smart technologies mitigate risk and promote safe behavior, while also ensuring rider satisfaction.
Part II: Using Old Technology for a New Purpose :: Brady Young, Business Development, DoubleMap
The process of updating and replacing technology can be expensive and time-consuming for any business, regardless of industry or size. Hardware is often reused when companies make large investments in technology that fails to deliver promised benefits. Learn how technology providers are able to leverage existing technologies to meet immediate transit agency needs.
FTA TRACK
Embracing or Weathering Transportation Changes - Mobility Management in Upstate New York :: Sheryl Gross-Glaser, Senior Program Associate, CTAA, NCMM Regional Liaison - FTA Region 2
This interactive session of mobility management professionals will address different structures that exist for regional and statewide mobility management networks, education, and problem solving. This will be explored through the context of emerging and existing transportation modes and the challenges of rural transportation coordination will also be covered.
2:40-3:30pm Concurrent Sessions
LEADERSHIP TRACK
Marketing – The Force That Grows Ridership :: Gary Marmer, Principal, ForceTen Marketing
There are a multitude of forces that constrain efforts to grow ridership. In order to increase ridership, transit organizations must deploy marketing content that compels potential new riders to choose your public transit solution as the best commuting choice. This session will teach participants how to create and present compelling content for outdoor, digital and other media platforms to result in significant increases in ridership and marketing ROI.
MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS TRACK
Part I: Introduction of Innovation on NYCT’s Subway Car Fleet :: John Santamaria, Acting VP and CMO, NYCT and Julie Green, VP, LKT Engineering
NYCT has a service-proven methodology of testing and implementing technical innovations across their large fleet of subway cars. This session will discuss the process and will include a description of innovations that will be implemented on new and legacy fleets.
Part II: Inclusive Design :: Brittany Perez, OTD, OTR/L, University at Buffalo; Jeffrey Sweet, Equipment Engineer, NFTA; Andrew Gardner, Northeast Regional Transit Manager, Q’Straint
A panel from University at Buffalo’s Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access, the Niagara Frontier Transit Authority, and Q’Straint will discuss successful collaborations in inclusive design research and service improvements for Bus & Paratransit Services in Western New York.
FTA TRACK
FTA Region 2 Operations and Program Management Round Table :: FTA Region II Staff: Darreyl Davis, Director, Office of Operations and Program Management; Veronica Pelt, Program Manager; Rosaria Luperena, Program Manager; Faye Ellison, Program Manager; Lauren Pessoa, Program Manager; Jonathan Howard, Program Manager
Discussion of Daily operations and program management interaction between FTA Region 2 staff and grant recipients. This session will discuss several topics including but not limited to:
• Triennial and State Management Reviews
• TrAMS
• Funding Issues
• Inactive and fully disbursed grants
• Triennial review (PSR-FMO) Workshops
• Technical Assistance
• Budget Revisions
3:40-4:30pm Concurrent Sessions
LEADERSHIP TRACK
Safety and Security :: Ryan Bentley, Investigator, NYS Police Counter Terrorism Unit
Learn how to bridge the gap between your agency's level of safety planning and reality based on real-life human factors that directly correspond to disaster planning. Ryan will review case studies from recent nationwide and global events and provide you with valuable tips to increase the likelihood of survival before emergency responders are on scene, what to expect during emergency response and the ensuring aftermath.
MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS TRACK
Part I: The Vehicle Maintenance Disruption :: Jeff Mooers, Business Development Manager, Allison Transmission and Matt Shaw, Fleet Manager, RTS
This session will focus on how new technology is disrupting the way fleets maintain vehicles. Hear how fleets are preparing for the new opportunities this technology presents.
Part II: Plasma Systems for Removal of Soot :: John Erbland, CEO and Jack Schickler, Director of Engineering, Paradigm
Paradigm will present a new device which removes PM soot from diesel emissions. Saving in fuel and maintenance will result from using this new technology.
RTAP/MOBILITY TRACK
Critical Issues Facing Small Transit Systems :: Bob Zerrillo, Policy Analyst, NYPTA; Scott Sopczyk, Transportation Director, Greater Glens Falls Transportation; Scot Vanderpool, General Manager, TCAT
Smaller transit systems face many of the same challenges as larger systems - including maintaining ridership, addressing aging infrastructure, and dealing with new travel options like TNCs - but with fewer resources. Come hear a panel of experts discuss these and other challenges and how they are being addressed to maximize transit mobility
4:30-5:15pm General Session
Rail: The Uber of the 1830s
The railroad was founded in New York State in 1831 and revolutionized the world. It was truly the "Uber" of the 1830s. Today, New York is home to three rail manufacturers which serve two major metro areas. This session will detail how rail is just as relevant today as it was nearly 200 years ago and how we all benefit from New York's rail systems. Join this intimate discussion as rail manufacturers and transit authorities share what's happening in rail today and the important infrastructure updates needed to keep New York on track. Join us for this interactive session with leaders in the rail industry!
4:30-6:30pm Transit Industry Expo & Reception
Thursday, October 25
6:30am-12:00pm Registration Desk Open
8:00-9:00am Transit Industry Breakfast
State and Federal Transit Policy Updates :: Paul Karas, Commissioner, NYSDOT; Steve Goodman, Region 2 Administrator, FTA (invited); Paul Skoutelas, President and CEO, APTA (invited)
Hear the latest news from the leaders at the forefront of our State and National governments developing and overseeing transportation policy
9:00-10:15am General Session
Diversity and Inclusion: Creating a Culture of Equality :: Dr. Shelton Goode, Executive Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority
- The transit industry is constantly changing. It’s critical that transit leaders at all levels understand the needs and demands of their employees, customers, suppliers and communities which are becoming increasingly diverse. Transit agencies play a vital role in sustaining growth within their communities! Therefore, transit professionals must be able to manage diverse work teams and create inclusive work environments. But how? Dr. Shelton Goode, DPA, and Executive Director of Diversity and Inclusion for the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), will present a high-impact engaging discussion about how leaders can effectively address challenges transit organizations face in response to calls for greater diversity, inclusion and equality. This presentation will focus on today’s climate and the responsibility leaders have inside and outside the walls of the organization. Specifically:
- • What does it mean to have an inclusive transit organization?
• How can a leader ensure s/he is properly prepared and trained to manage a diverse work team and create an inclusive work environment?
• What are the key strategies to manage diversity, increase inclusion, and create a culture based on equality and respect?
10:25-11:15am Concurrent Sessions
LEADERSHIP TRACK
The RTS WAY: Optimizing Employees' Life Cycle Experience by Creating a Culture of Diversity & Inclusion :: Amy Gould, Executive Vice President of People, Renee Elwood, Manager of Wellness & Benefits, RTS
Enjoy this intimate discussion surrounding current strategies around diversity and inclusion and how they impact systems of recruiting, onboarding, developing, recognition, and succession planning.
DOT TRACK
Public Transportation Safety Board Update :: NYSDOT PTSB Representatives
Hear the latest from the NYSDOT's Public Transportation Safety Board (PTSB) officials on requirements for Bus Accident Investigation Training For Identifying Safety Hazards (BAITFISH), System Safety Program Plan (SSPP) Guidelines and Bus Inspections.
RTAP/MOBILITY TRACK
Part I: Building a Business Model for MaaS :: Dwight Mengel, Chief Transportation Manager, Tompkins County
Tompkins County and a consortium of mobility service partners are developing a business model for mobility-as-a-service in 2018-2019 in preparation for planning a MaaS pilotproject in 2020. Learn more about the MaaS concepts and how to use the business model canvas.
Part II: Mobility Best Practices :: Lauren Bailey, Mobility Manager, CDTA
Transportation Authorities are evolving beyond just bus service to become mobility managers for their regions. This includes an emphasis on alternative transportation such as bike share and car share. This session will focus on the best practices to take a vision of mobility management and put it into practice, with a discussion of current projects at CDTA and around the state.
11:25am-12:15pm Concurrent Sessions
LEADERSHIP TRACK
Inclusion and Equality: Driving from Awareness to Action :: Dr. Shelton Goode, Executive Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority
Work, workers, and the workplace are undergoing dramatic transformations. Research suggests that by 2030 workers in the transit industry will be older and younger at the same time, and a more inclusive workplace is a necessity. Dr. Shelton Goode, diversity executive and thought leader, best-selling author and speaker, will detail the leadership skills necessary to shape the transit workforce of the future. Additionally, he will provide practical strategies transit leaders should employ if they expect to achieve greater inclusion and equality. At the end of this session participants will be able to:
- Describe diversity trends impacting their workforce and workplace;
- Outline decisions made every day in the transit world and their impact on the workplace culture;
- Identify skills, strategies, and new leadership competencies necessary to achieve higher performance, more inclusiveness, and greater equality.
DOT TRACK
OGS Adult Bus Contract :: Ed Sawicki, ITS1, NYSDOT
Potentially, the current NYSOGS Adult Bus Contract could expire as early as December 22, 2018. It’s not too early to discuss what works, what doesn’t, and obtain recommendations from operators and vendors to make the next award a more effective procurement tool. The objective is to deliver buses that meet the needs of your programs. This session will review the current vehicles and options on the contract, and will touch on other elements of continuing control such as maintenance, warranty, and FTA reporting requirements.
FTA TRACK
Managing Bus Rapid Transit Projects in the Region :: Ross Farrell, Director of Planning, Capital District Transportation Authority; Darnell Tyson, PE, Deputy Commissioner, Suffolk County Department of Public Works
Discussion of bus rapid transit projects that are currently being funded by the FTA. The session will provide an overview CDTA’s two BRT projects, Washington Western and Albany River Corridor and Suffolk County’s Nicholls Road BRT project. A project overview will be discussed along with lessons learned during the stages of project phases. The participants will provide their insights into BRT project development and implementation.
