Planning Program Manager
CurrentResponsible for providing guidance in the development and implementation of strategies leading to the adoption of regional approaches addressing issues of interest to the Commission and the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). These strategies support the short-and long-term transportation and related environmental and community development planning needs of the region.Specific initiatives include...- Bob Michel Bridge Barrier Protected Pathway - Seeing the need for a safer pathway over the BMB for pedestrians and cyclists, I contacted and enlisted the support of over 30 public and private entities who supported conducting an engineering evaluation/study to determine feasibility of constructing such a pathway. That effort led to a request of our State Legislators for $20 million of Rebuild Illinois funding which was awarded in 2021. The BMB with a new 14 foot wide barrier protected pathway will open in the Fall of 2023.- Beneficial Use of Dredged Material - I convened a meeting of stakeholders which led to the manufacture of engineered topsoil using Illinois River soil and sand sediment which was packaged and sold to local retailers.- Invasive Species Asian Carp Harvesting - I initiated the communication and connection of regional stakeholders which led to the development of a regional AC harvesting and processing business led by the Midwest Fish Coop and Sorce Freshwater Company. This collaboration more effectively harvests and produces products capitalizing on the 15 million pounds of fish that can be harvested annually from the Peoria Pool.- Illinois Center for Transportation / Illinois Department of Transportation - As a member of several Technical Review Panels, I participate and provide feedback on Research Projects focusing on transportation issues such a autonomous mobility.- CDC / Walkability Institute / Social Determinants of Health Committee - Engaged with several regional non-motorized (Ped/Bike) transportation initiatives.
