In 2024, SJTPO launched a Complete Streets Technical Assistance Program to support South Jersey communities through training and project-specific assistance. This session will provide a program update, highlighting a temporary demonstration project in Pennsville. Speakers will discuss use of the SJTPO lending library, installation of temporary traffic calming features, speed data collection, and public engagement. Updates on ongoing work in Buena and Egg Harbor City, along with upcoming application opportunities, will also be shared.

Moderator: Jennifer Marandino, P.E., Executive Director, SJTPO
Invited Speakers:
Kristen McLaughlin, Cross County Connection Transportation Management Association
James Sinclair, Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center at Rutgers University
Steve Krough, Pennsville Emergency Management Coordinator

Traffic crashes remain a leading cause of child fatalities, making school zone safety critical. This session highlights NJDOT’s proactive approach to identifying school zone risks and explores two key strategies: infrastructure improvements and crossing guard training. Drawing on experience from the NJ Crossing Guard Training Program and focus group insights, we’ll share practical recommendations for safer school zones through physical upgrades and human-centered solutions.

Sean Meehan, Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center at Rutgers University
Jeevanjot Singh, PMP, Manger, Bureau of Safety Improvement Programs, NJDOT
Arlene Holt, Operations Director, Keep Middlesex Moving, Inc.

Session 31. You Talkin’ to Me? Awesome Public Engagement Success Stories

This session spotlights recent public engagement successes (regional and specialized) for the NJTPA’s Long Range Transportation Plan as well as Safe Streets for All efforts in North Jersey. Examples include pop-up community outreach events, hybrid outreach approaches, virtual meetings, surveys, and targeted outreach to kids (featuring Sammy the Squirrel!).

Moderator: NJTPA Board Member TBD
Catherine Heady, Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center at Rutgers University
Courtenay Mercer, Founding Principal + CEO, Mercer Planning Associates
Ted Ritter, Manager, External Affairs, NJTPA

This high-level, interactive session brings together New Jersey’s three MPOs: the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA), the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC), and the South Jersey Transportation Planning Organization (SJTPO). The executive directors of all three MPOs will address common issues, opportunities, and challenges regarding transportation planning in the state.

Moderator: Leigh Ann Von Hagen, AICP, PP Executive Director, Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center, Rutgers University
Presenter: David W. Behrend, AICP, Executive Director, NJTPA
Presenter: Ariella Maron, Executive Director, DVRPC
Presenter: Jennifer Marandino, PE, Executive Director, SJTPO

As e-scooters, e-bikes, and bicycles surge in popularity among young riders, communities are grappling with rising safety concerns and rapidly evolving registration and licensing mandates. This session will unpack the policies, infrastructure changes, and education efforts shaping safer streets in the micromobility era. Join our expert panelists to hear how they are harnessing micromobility to expand access and equity while safeguarding all road users in their communities.

Moderator: Michael Johnson, EZ Ride
Mayor Sheena Collum, South Orange, SOMa Bike Bus Program
Robert Estrict, Bike Share Program, Passaic UEZ
Greg Woltman, AICP, Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center at Rutgers University

In 2025, NJDOT BPRC released the New Jersey Micromobility Guide. Since then, evolving local policies and ongoing legislative efforts have added complexity to e‑bike regulation. This session will summarize current state laws, highlight key guidance from the Guide, and outline emerging issues as communities respond to growing e‑bike use. Presenters will share research on e‑bike use to access essential needs, along with best practices in micromobility policies.

Moderator: Leigh Ann Von Hagen, AICP, PP, Executive Director, Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center at Rutgers University
Greg Woltman, AICP, Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center at Rutgers University
Yingning Xie, PhD Candidate, Rutgers University
Zoe Baldwin, Vice President of State Programs, Regional Plan Association