Mobility is key to the Inland Empire’s future economic growth and quality of life. This dialogue series has been developed to address the numerous Inland Empire projects and initiatives designed to improve mobility. Advanced technology will be the dominant factor in our automobiles, rail transportation, the movement of freight, and the organization of our communities. Few will doubt the assertion that the change we are about to face is at least as great in the 21st Century as was the transportation changes that occurred in the early 20th Century as we moved from horse and buggies to planes, trains, and automobiles.
As exciting as this impending future may be, it is very important to remind ourselves that we live in a democratic society in which an informed electorate is the best guarantee of a strong and stable society. However, given the rapid pace of events, most people today are not informed about the many issues related to the imminent changes in our transportation infrastructure, few are aware of the many transportation-related projects and initiatives, and fewer still are involved in any meaningful way in the decisions that are being made. There are differing opinions regarding the magnitude of the problems and the relative merit of various potential solutions. Moreover, there is currently no authoritative place that people who are not directly involved in ongoing discussions can go to obtain a comprehensive overview of our mobility needs, the related social concerns, and the projects and initiatives now being discussed to address them. The purpose of Inland Empire Mobility Dialogue Series is to provide that forum.
Let's Keep the Conversations Going!
The Inland Empire Mobility Dialogue Series Continues
Thank you for joining us as the conversation continues in the sixth year of the CSUSB Leonard Transportation Center Inland Empire Mobility Dialogue Series!
Save the date for our upcoming events, where we will continue to have vital conversations on transportation topics that affect the Inland Empire.
#LTCtalks and #LTCtalks2023 is the official event hashtag!
Additional Information:
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2023 Dialogue Topics
December 12, 2023 | 8:00-10:00 am
LINKING SURFACE TO AIR TRANSPORTATION
GUEST SPEAKERS
Emerging Technologies Based Mobility Solutions to Connect Airports
Ian Choudri
HNTB
2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games Transportation Planning
Sam Morrissey
LA28
Bus Rapid Transit Connecting the West Valley: The West Valley Connector/sbX Purple Line
Anna Jaiswal
Omnitrans
ONT Passenger Access
Michelle Brantley
OIAA
PREVIOUS DIALOGUES
DIALOGUE 1
February 21, 2023 | 8:00-10:00 am
Balancing the Race to Zero Emissions in Transportation: Envisioning a Future with an Integrated Energy System
GUEST SPEAKERS
SPEAKER 1
Marvin Moon | Assistant General Manager of Power Delivery at Pasadena Water and Power
SPEAKER 2
Victor Lopez | Director of Transit and Rail Programs at SBCTA
SPEAKER 3
Andrew Conley | Project Director at HNTB
SPEAKER 4
Jan Harnik | President of SCAG and Councilwoman from the City of Palm Desert
DIALOGUE 2
April 18, 2023 | 8:00-10:00 am
Back in the Office? Traffic Patterns in the Inland Empire
GUEST SPEAKERS
SPEAKER 1
Sean Reseigh | Senior Transportation Planner for Fehr & Peers
SPEAKER 2
Jack Liebersohn | Assistant Professor of Economics for University of California, Irvine
SPEAKER 3
Ginger Koblasz | Senior Planner for San Bernardino County Transportation Authority
SPEAKER 4
Brenda Reza | Employer Services Representative for IE Commuter
DIALOGUE 3
June 20, 2023 | 8:00-10:00 am
Developing a Sustainable Inland Southern California Port
GUEST SPEAKERS
SPEAKER 1
Curt Hagman | Fourth District Supervisor for San Bernardino County
SPEAKER 2
Henry McKay | Sustainable Transportation Analyst for Caltrans
SPEAKERS 3
Bhavik Pankaj Khatri & Sia Kalyan Ayyagari | Computer Science Grad Student at California State University, San Bernardino
SPEAKER 4
Dr. Kanok Boriboonsomsin | Associate Director of the College of Engineering for University of California-Riverside
SPEAKER 5
Lisa Hannaman | Senior Account Manager for Southern California Edison
DIALOGUE 4
August 22, 2023 | 8:00-10:00 am
Urban Development and Transportation in the Inland Empire
GUEST SPEAKERS
SPEAKER 1
Dorlins Villalobos | Public Policy Grad Student at University of California-Riverside
SPEAKER 2
Jordan Leffew | Public Policy Grad Student at University of California-Riverside
SPEAKER 3
Kirill S. Rogovoy | Civil Engineering Student at Cal Poly Pomona at Cal Poly Pomona
SPEAKER 4
Yasamin Rasouli | Civil Engineering Student at Cal Poly Pomona
SPEAKER 5
Juan C. Perez | Chief Operating Officer for County of Riverside
DIALOGUE 5
October 17, 2023 | 8:00-10:00 am
Moving People within the Inland Empire
GUEST SPEAKERS
SPEAKER 1
Dr. Raffi Der Wartanian | Research Fellow, CSUSB
SPEAKER 2
Richard Van Hyning | Director, HNTB
SPEAKER 3
Darren Kettle | CEO, Metrolink
SPEAKER 4
John Gillison | City Manager, City of Rancho Cucamonga
The Issue
The Inland Empire boasts two airports, Ontario and San Bernardino International airports. In this Dialogue, expert discussions revolve around the examination of available transportation options to the airports. Understanding the effectiveness of the transportation system in providing public access to air travel is crucial. By exploring the links between surface and air transportation, we aim to enhance accessibility for underserved populations who may lack convenient public surface transportation options to reach airports. Join us in this Dialogue as we discuss the future of surface to air transportation in the Inland Empire.
Agenda
8:00-8:10 am - WELCOMING REMARKS: HNTB and CSUSB
8:10-8:15 am - AUDIENCE POLL #1
8:15-8:30 am - SPEAKER
Ian Choudri, HNTB
8:30-8:35 am - AUDIENCE POLL #2
8:35-8:50 am - SPEAKER
Sam Morrissey, LA28
8:50-8:55 am - AUDIENCE POLL #3
8:55-9:10 am - SPEAKER
Anna Jaiswal, Omnitrans
9:10-9:15 am - AUDIENCE POLL #4
9:15-9:30 am - SPEAKER
Michelle Brantley, OIAA
9:30-9:55 am - DISCUSSION
9:55-10:00 am - Concluding Remarks: CSUSB
Speaker Bios
Ian Choudri
Senior Vice President
Ian Choudri is a hands-on operations and program delivery executive with 28 years of experience in operations, project delivery, sales and marketing, as well as the delivery of large-scale civil alternative project delivery/design-build projects for rail and transit, ports and airport markets in North America, South America Asia, Middle East and Europe. Ian has played critical roles in planning, development and delivery of complex infrastructure projects throughout the world, including high-profile projects the FTA-funded Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Metrorail Extension to Dulles International Airport. He currently provides advisory services for San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) Ontario Airport Connector project which will provide an autonomous vehicle connection to the airport. He also brings direct experience working with emerging technologies-based mobility solutions, having led a research and development team in France for delivering the next generation of high-speed trains, driverless trains for light rail and induction streetcar systems. Ian's unique combination of delivering variety of public infrastructure projects and his understanding of the full life cycle of complex programs starting from funding approaches, master planning, environmental impact assessments through full construction build out using various project delivery methods positions him as a leader in providing strategic advice to all his clients. Ian routinely engages senior experts, innovative thinkers nationally and worldwide to assist clients with strategic thinking and critical decision making to maximize the value and return-on-investment for public infrastructure projects. With his extensive experience and problem-solving skills, Ian has played key roles as strategic advisor to several transportation agencies in the United States.
Sam Morrissey
Vice President of Transportation
Sam Morrissey is the Vice President of Transportation for LA28, the private nonprofit organizing committee responsible for delivering the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. In this role, Sam leads the Transportation Functional Area for LA28, which includes the planning, development, deployment, and operation of all Games Stakeholder fleet services and supporting operations to move athletes, technical officials, national committee members, international sport federation representatives, media, spectators, and workforce between the more than 75 Games venues, accommodations, training facilities, and broadcast centers spread across three counties in Southern California, all while ensuring the day-to-day activities and commerce of the greater Los Angeles region can continue.
Prior to joining LA28, Sam served as the first permanent Executive Director of the nonprofit Urban Movement Labs, where he led UML’s work advancing the safe, equitable, and sustainable deployment of new transportation technologies in cities by facilitating public-private partnerships. This included a portfolio of projects and partners covering all modes of transport and use cases, from delivery robots on sidewalks to new advanced air mobility (AAM) technologies in the skies above.
He also served as a lecturer for two undergraduate courses in Transportation Engineering and Design at the University of California, Los Angeles from 2017 through 2019. Sam holds a BS in Civil Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and an MBA from the University of Southern California. He is a licensed professional Civil and Traffic engineer in California, and lives in Pasadena with his wife and two children.
Anna Jaiswal
Development Planning Manager
Anna Jaiswal is the Development Planning Manager at Omnitrans, the public transit provider for the San Bernardino Valley region. Anna has been at Omnitrans for 12 years and leads the agency’s efforts to improve bus stops and transit infrastructure, apply for grant funds, and provide coordination with member cities’ and other partner agencies’ planning efforts. As Omnitrans’ project manager for the West Valley Connector project, Anna is working collaboratively with the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority to develop Omnitrans’ second bus rapid transit line, which will be operated as the sbX Purple Line and will start operations in 2026.
Michelle Brantley
Chief Capital Development Officer
Michelle Brantley has over twenty years of airport experience including over fifteen years in various capacities related to airport capital programs.
She leads a multi-disciplinary group of planning, business and engineering professionals to develop and implement a comprehensive on-going capital planning and delivery program. Her team prioritizes and delivers capital development projects and improvements – including capacity, modernization, and asset renewal and replacement – to meet future demand and maintain operational continuity in a balanced program. She advocates for airport-related business and tenant development to promote economic vitality at the airport and in the region. By establishing a collaborative approach to support the need for planning and programming across all OIAA departments and stakeholders, Michelle ensures the Capital Improvement Program considers fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency, while bolstering a competitive, safe, and secure environment at the Ontario International Airport. She joined ONT in May of 2019. Previously, she was Senior Development Manager at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Michelle earned her bachelor’s degree, from the University of Washington, in Urban Studies her master’s in management and leadership from Western Governors University. Additionally, she is a certified member (CM) of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).
2024 INLAND EMPIRE MOBILITY DIALOGUE SERIES TOPICS
February 20, 2024
Safeguarding Inland Empire's Public Transportation Networks: Challenges and Solutions for Transit Security
April 16, 2024
Equity and Inclusivity in Transportation Funding: Bridging Gaps for the Inland Empire's Mobility Future
June 18, 2024
Fueling the Future: Advancing Hydrogen Technology and Infrastructure in the Inland Empire
August 20, 2024
Strategies for Strengthening the IE’s Transportation Workforce
October 15, 2024
The Interplay of Aviation and Ground Transportation in the IE’s Goods Movement Sector
December 10, 2024
How Does State Policy Shape the Transportation Landscape of the IE Region?
Platinum Sponsors
HNTB
HNTB Corporation is an employee-owned infrastructure solutions firm serving public and private owners and contractors. HNTB’s work in California dates back to its founding in 1914. Today, HNTB continues to grow in size and service offerings to its clients in California. HNTB’s eight California office locations, including one in the Inland Empire, currently employ more than 350 full-time professionals. With more than a century of service, HNTB understands the life cycle of infrastructure projects and addresses clients’ most complex technical, financial, and operational challenges. Professionals nationwide deliver a full range of infrastructure-related services, including award-winning planning, design, program management, and construction management. For more information, visit www.hntb.com.
San Bernardino International Airport
Conveniently located in the heart of the Inland Empire, close to major freeways and just 60 miles from Los Angeles, San Bernardino (SBD) International Airport is strategically positioned to meet growing aviation activity, including cargo, business aviation, general aviation, and commercial airlines by providing competitive rates for aviation companies and local businesses looking to stretch their wings and expand their horizons. With extensive stretches of pristine runway and acres of prime land available for aviation development, SBD International Airport is ready to help our community and region reach new destinations.
Ontario International Airport
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the fastest growing airport in the United States, according to Global Traveler, a leading publication for frequent fliers. Located in the Inland Empire, ONT is approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California. It is a full-service airport which, before the coronavirus pandemic, offered nonstop commercial jet service to 26 major airports in the U.S., Mexico, Central America and Taiwan. More information is available at www.flyOntario.com. Follow @flyONT on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
San Bernardino Valley College
San Bernardino Valley College Heavy/Medium Truck Program
The Heavy/Medium Duty Truck Technology program at San Bernardino Valley College students receive training in various subjects including brake, suspension, computer controlled engines, emphasis in electrical and heavy duty maintenance, engine overhaul and Zero emission EV vehicles. Students working for certificates must have a basic knowledge of arithmetic, reading and writing to learn and work in the occupations they select. The department has one of the best training facilities in the Inland Empire. Job placement opportunities are substantial though the department's network of employers. If you would like to learn more, please visit our website: www.valleycollege.edu.
SBVC was the recipient of a 2012 Cascadia Luxury Truck, donated by Velocity Vehicle Group and Daimler Trucks North America. This three-axle truck, which uses a new compressed natural gas energy source, will be used for the program’s students to work on for class projects. The department also received a 4500 rugged duty series transmission, donated by Allison Transmission, to further provide premium technical training. In collaboration with the SBVC Foundation, the Heavy/Medium Duty Diesel Truck Program was awarded several grants from Southern California Gas from 2016 to present. Funds were used to purchase supplies for the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) system alternative fuels course. In addition, the program also partnered with South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Project for their Volvo Low Light Impact Green Heavy Transport Solutions (LIGHTS) grant project application. SBVC was a sub-recipient in the amount of $200,000, which will allow the development of curriculum hands-on education with the Volvo electric trucks.
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
BECOME A SPONSOR TODAY!
Leonard Transportation Center provides Inland Empire problem-solvers with a forum to engage in essential discussion.
If you would like more information about becoming a sponsor for the Inland Empire Mobility Dialogue Series, please contact the Leonard Transportation Center at ltc@csusb.edu or call at (909) 537-5094.