Results....Examples of our Succes

Amend Title 23 to allow for real-time ridesharing to be defined and eligible – Having foresight to see the dangers that lie ahead, we were able to assist a client to secure language in MAP-21 that defined real-time ridesharing under the definition of a carpool/vanpool project. Under the definition, it made a real-time carpool project that allows drivers and riders to exchange information and payments in real-time eligible for funding so long as the driver does not profit from the trip. 

Include provision in MAP-21 that allows local governments to use farebox revenue for local match in vanpools – Vanpools are typically the only form of transit capable of recovering all of its operating costs plus some capital costs from the farebox. In MAP-21, we helped include a provision that would allow local governments to use farebox proceeds, in excess of operating costs, toward local match when private capital is being used. 

Protected the Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality Program – In SAFETEA-LU and MAP-21, we beat back attempts by entities that wanted to allow SOV construction to be eligible under CMAQ. In MAP-21, we were able to craft language that requires states to come up with a performance plan and select projects that would have the highest impact on achieving the goals of such performance plan. This will ultimately lead States to using more CMAQ funds on operations projects such as TDM and ITS. 

Prevented Regulation of Vanpools – On several occasions, there have been attempts to regulate 9-15 passenger vehicles, these actions would inadvertently eliminate vanpooling as a result. By showing vanpooling’s impeccable safety record and utilizing a grassroots effort, we have avoided regulation from legislation as well as agency actions. 

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Transit Benefit Parity – In 2008, we were able to secure passage of language to establish parity between the parking and transit/vanpool fringe benefits 

Advocacy 

Below is just a small sample of some of my recent successes. Over the past four years, I have been able to successfully pass legislation, protect provisions, or other action out of every committee that has jurisdiction over the Federal transportation program including: House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, House Ways & Means, House Science Committee, The Senate Environment & Public Works Committee, Senate Banking Committee, Senate Commerce Committee and the House and Senate Appropriations Committees. Additional examples of success in advocacy are available on request. 

Other Services 

​Strategic Communication – I have organized numerous press events and developed strategic communications projects for multiple clients. I recently organized a press event in support of transit benefit parity. The event generated more than 50 stories in local, trade, and national outlets

GrassrootsOrganization– I have organized numerous grassroots campaigns. Currently, I am helping manage the commutebenefitsworkforus.com campaign. We have generated over 125,000 letters to Congress in support of transit benefit parity 
Conference & Event Organization – I have helped organize numerous “Fly-in’s”, summits, and public policy conferences. I recently managed the Shared-Use Mobility Public Policy Summit -- Event Information

Policy Work
​We have also developed a number of policy pieces for our clients, including the following pieces of legislation:

Innovation in Surface Transportation Act of 2014 (HR 4726) – Creates ‘In-State’ Competitive Grant Programs open to a wide variety of entities. This legislation is intends to spur innovation and local control over Federal transportation funds. 
Commute Less (HR 2968) – Requires MPOs to create employer advisory councils to encourage regional employer based commuter programs 
Smart Communities (HR 995 – 112th Congress) – Sets up discretionary ITS program for research and collaboration in several modal cities leveraging existing infrastructure and entities, such as UTCs 
​​Shared Use Policies – We have been brought in as an expert to testify and help develop local policies for shared-use transportation. In 2014, we help organize and host the first annual Shared-Use Mobility Public Policy Summit