Session I: Ideate

Time: 10:45am to 12:00pm 

Location: Concourse Level – Conference Rooms 

A Holistic Approach to Universal Design

This interactive session offers a comprehensive look at universal design as a framework to make accessibility the default. Experts in architecture, urban planning, and accessibility advocacy will discuss strategies for integrating inclusive and universal design principles from the earliest stages of planning and design. We will explore questions like: What does accessibility and inclusion look like when it is embedded into every aspect of the built environment? How can we create spaces that are truly accessible, inclusive, and functional for everyone? Attendees will gain practical insights and actionable takeaways to apply in their own work, whether in urban development, policymaking, or community advocacy. 

Location: Concourse Level – Queens (C198) 

Moderator: Nicholas Pettinati, Deputy Director of Urban Design, NYC Department of Transportation

Speakers: 

Maximizing Impact with Limited Resources 

Across the country, transportation agencies face budget and staffing constraints while striving to meet ambitious equity goals. This panel will bring together key decision-makers involved in project planning and service delivery to discuss how they prioritize resources for equity in a challenging environment with reduced financial support. Panelists will share insights into the strategies they use to allocate limited resources, prioritize projects, and ensure equitable outcomes, all while navigating the unique challenges of their respective regions. The discussion will provide valuable perspectives on how limited resources are allocated and panelists will share applicable strategies to reach equitable outcomes. 

Location: Concourse Level – Staten Island (C201-202) 

Moderator: Paul Ochoa, Executive Deputy Commissioner, NYC Department of Transportation 

Speakers: 

Developing Equity Action Plans

Advancing equity requires intentional, actionable strategies that drive meaningful change. Through a series of short presentations, speakers from various cities will share real-world examples of best practices, challenges they've overcome, and lessons learned in their efforts to embed equity into policies, programs and operations. The session will conclude with a moderated Q&A, providing participants an opportunity to engage directly with speakers. Participants will leave with concrete resources to develop their own equity action plans. 

Location: Concourse Level – Manhattan (C203) 

Moderator: Warren Whitlock, Deputy Director for Federal Strategies, Race Forward

Speakers: 

Innovating Towards Healthier Urban Neighborhoods and Ecosystems

Equity and climate challenges are inextricably intertwined. This panel will explore the ways in which cities can advance equity, prosperity, public health outcomes, and environmental justice goals while addressing climate challenges of today and tomorrow. How do urban environments shape our health? How are city governments and communities working together to become more resilient? This session will provide actionable insights for creating cities that prioritize both sustainability and the well-being of all residents. 

Location: Concourse Level – The Bronx (C204-205)

Moderator: Radcliffe Dacanay, Climate Officer, Seattle Department of Transportation

Speakers: