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:
LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Zoom
2023 Dialogue Topics
October 17, 2023 | 8:00-10:00 am
MOVING PEOPLE WITHIN THE INLAND EMPIRE
GUEST SPEAKERS
Navigating 2021: A Deep Dive into San Bernardino County's Travel Patterns
Dr. Raffi Der Wartanian
California State University, San Bernardino
The Future of Managed Lanes in a Multimodal Inland Empire
Richard Van Hyning
HNTB
SoCal Regional Rail Update
Darren Kettle
Metrolink
Transformation Through Transportation: Cucamonga Station - Multi-Modal Transit Hub
John Gillison
City of Rancho Cucamonga
DIALOGUE 6
December 12, 2023 | 8:00-10:00 am
Linking Surface to Air Transportation
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
The Issue
The Inland Empire, home to a diverse and rapidly growing population where transportation serves as the lifeblood, bridging the gap between homes and essential amenities such as healthcare facilities, workplaces, parks, and retail spaces. The region is distinguished by its extensive urban sprawl. Understanding how the population navigates this sprawling landscape provides insights into transportation accessibility and the efficacy of mobility strategies currently in place.
In this Dialogue, we will explore the ways people travel between public and private spaces, and how accessible various modes of transportation are. We will try to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the current transportation network, and how it impacts everyday life. From public transit systems to private vehicles, we'll explore how these modes facilitate—or sometimes, hinder—the easy reach to vital areas, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the region's transportation dynamic.
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
Dr. Raffi Der Wartanian, Research Fellow, CSUSB
8:30-8:35 am - AUDIENCE POLL #2
8:35-8:50 am - SPEAKER
Richard Van Hyning, Southern California Integrated Solutions Director, HNTB
8:50-8:55 am - AUDIENCE POLL #3
8:55-9:10 am - SPEAKER
Darren Kettle, CEO, Metrolink
9:10-9:15 am - AUDIENCE POLL #4
9:15-9:30 am - SPEAKER
John Gillison, City Manager, City of Rancho Cucamonga
9:30-9:55 am - DISCUSSION
9:55-10:00 am - Wrap-up and Adjourn
Speaker Bios
Dr. Raffi Der Wartanian
Research Fellow
Dr. Raffi Der Wartanian is a research fellow specializing in transportation policy, data science, sustainability, and equity. His research endeavors at the Leonard Transportation Center at California State University, San Bernardino, his multifaceted research interests encompass the electrification of medium and heavy-duty vehicles, big data analytics in traffic and transportation modeling, geospatial analysis, and public policy. Moreover, he is invested in examining the environmental aspects of transportation systems, with a focus on climate change and sustainable practices. Another salient aspect of his research deals with social equity in public transit, particularly in suburban areas, and he examines the interplay between transportation policies and economic development. His work incorporates extensive data analysis and involves collaboration with various universities and organizations.
Richard Van Hyning
Southern California Integrated Solutions Director
Richard Van Hyning is the Southern California Integrated Solutions Director for HNTB. As a senior transportation technology consultant, he supports a variety of tolling, ITS, and emerging mobility projects as well as transportation initiatives for Southern California clients, including the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA), the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC), the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), and the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA).
Richard has led and supported over 15 toll system implementation projects across two countries, including the I-15 Express Lanes in Riverside and San Diego counties, the SR-125 toll road in San Diego County, the SR-91 Express Lanes in Riverside and Orange counties, and the I-680 Express Lanes in Alameda County. He has 17 years of experience, including nearly a decade spent supporting complex hardware and software delivery projects and 6 years of military service in the United States Air Force.
Richard holds a Bachelor’s degree in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from University of Massachusetts, Lowell, a Master of Business Administration degree from Oklahoma State University, and a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
Darren Kettle
Chief Executive Officer
Darren Kettle is Chief Executive Officer of Metrolink, Southern California’s regional passenger rail service that provides a safe, easy, affordable, and stress-free alternative to car travel for the more than 18 million residents of the six-county mega-region. He became the Metrolink CEO in September 2021.
Kettle has more than 30 years of experience with local and regional government agencies. Before joining Metrolink, Kettle was the Executive Director of the Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) for 14 years. Previously, Kettle was with the San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) from 2000 through 2007. Early in his SANBAG tenure, Kettle was Director of Intergovernmental and Legislative Affairs for both SANBAG and the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC).
Kettle has a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of California, Santa Barbara and a Master’s in Public Administration from California State University, San Bernardino.
John Gillison
City Manager
John Gillison is the City Manager of Rancho Cucamonga for 10+ years. Prior to his current position he was the Assistant City Manager and Deputy City Manager for Rancho Cucamonga. John also previously served as the City Manager for the City of Sierra Madre. He has over 30 years in the public sector in five different agencies (Walnut, Cerritos, Pomona, Sierra Madre, Rancho Cucamonga), two different counties (Los Angeles and San Bernardino), full service and contract cities, charter and general law, with populations ranging in size from 15,000 to nearly 185,000 in population.
John has a Bachelor's degree in Political Science with a Minor in Criminal Justice, and a Masters degree in Public Administration, all from California State University Fullerton. During his career he has worked in Finance, Community Development and the City Manager’s office. Areas of expertise include budgeting and finance, human resources and risk management, geographic information services, planning and building as well as engineering and redevelopment.
John has served in various leadership roles for the CalCities City Manager’s Department, and is the Board President for the CIRA insurance pool of 30+ public agencies and Board President for the ERMA insurance pool with over 200+ public agencies. As a licensed California Attorney, John is a certified trainer in sexual harassment prevention as well as a Core Strengths, SDI facilitator for improved communication for individuals and teams.
In addition, John is a long time member of the Emergency Medical Care Committee for San Bernardino County, a Board of Supervisors appointed position, current vice-chair, and was recently reappointed to a 4 year term thru 2026 representing city managers throughout the County.
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.