Episode 52: Transit Oriented Development
Along The Lines
Transit-oriented development (TOD) is a key priority for the Connecticut DOT and is vital to revitalizing and strengthening communities. In this episode, we talk with Meriden Mayor Kevin Scarpati to explore the city’s remarkable transformation sparked by the new CTrail Hartford Line station. We’re also joined by Elise Greenberg, Transit Manager at the Connecticut DOT, who discusses how Meriden’s TOD success story serves as a blueprint for other initiatives across the state.
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Episode 51: Customer Experience Action Plan 2024 Update
Along The Lines
In this episode, we hear from Dan Baker, CTDOT's Transportation Supervising Planner, who provides updates on the 26 actions from the 2023 Customer Experience Action Plan and introduces three new initiatives to improve bus and rail services. Michael Helta, Maryland Transit's Chief Customer Experience Officer, also joins us and shares how his agency enhances the rider experience. Tune in for valuable insights into public transit innovation and customer-focused improvements.
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Episode 50: Public Transportation and Workforce Development
Along The Lines
This episode explores workforce development's vital role in strengthening regional economies by focusing on people rather than individual employers. Join us for a discussion with Carita Ducre from the American Public Transportation Association as we explore the connection between public transportation and its contribution to a robust economy and employment. We also examine how workforce development can improve public transit systems through employee training, development opportunities, and more.
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Episode 49: Stand Down 2024 - Serving Those Who Served
Along The Lines
Connecticut's annual Stand Down event, happening Sept. 20th, provides essential services for veterans, National Guard members, Reserve members, and their families. This one-stop resource event offers support from state and federal agencies, nonprofits, and veteran organizations. Retired Brigadier General Ron Welch, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs, and Blake Roberts, CTDOT Transportation Planner, join us to discuss how Stand Down supports those who have served our nation.
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Episode 48: Hartford Mobility Study
Along The Lines
In this episode, we examine the Connecticut Department of Transportation's final report of the Greater Hartford Mobility Study. This community-driven initiative was developed to reimagine and reconnect neighborhoods for enhanced mobility throughout Greater Hartford. Join us as we speak with Kim Lesay, Bureau Chief of Policy and Planning, and Kevin Burnham, Transportation Supervising Engineer at CTDOT, to explore this visionary plan for creating a vibrant, sustainable, and multimodal transportation network.
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Episode 47: Equity in Urban Planning and Transportation
Along The Lines
In this episode, we dive into the critical role of social equity in shaping communities where everyone can thrive and participate. Discover how the CTDOT is committed to creating vibrant communities with cleaner environments, affordable housing, reliable public transportation, and more. Tune in to learn how social equity fosters a more inclusive and sustainable future. Our special guest, Taiwo Jaiyeoba, National Director of Bus Rapid Transit at Lochner Engineering, shares his valuable insights on this topic.
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Episode 46: Chester-Hadlyme Ferry Vessel’s 75th Anniversary
Along The Lines
Join us in celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Chester-Hadlyme ferry's vessel, the Selden III. We will explore the ferry’s rich history and discuss how it continues to connect communities across the Connecticut River. Special guests Captain John F. Kennedy, ferry captain from the CTDOT, and Lynn Wilkinson, President and Communications Chair from Friends of Gillette Castle State Park, will share their insights on the history and ongoing community impact of the Chester-Hadlyme ferry.
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Episode 45: Drive Less CT Climate Challenge
Along The Lines
It’s time for the Drive Less CT Climate Challenge, kicking off on Earth Day, April 22nd. Since 2018, this initiative, led by CTDOT in collaboration with CTrides, has seen impressive results in raising awareness and promoting sustainable transportation. Tune in to discover more about the challenge, its environmental benefits, and how to participate with our guests, Russell McDermott from CTrides and Liam Cawley from the CT Science Center.
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Episode 44: Microtransit
Along The Lines
Embark on a trip into the future of public transportation with Along the Lines! Host Ben Limmer takes you on a captivating journey into the world of microtransit, joined by special guests Mark Goodale from the Connecticut Department of Transportation and Matt Pentz from Norwalk Transit District. Tune in to hear about Connecticut’s pioneering pilot project and discover the benefits of microtransit and its transformative potential in shaping the future of public transportation.
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Episode 43: Bus Service Enhancements
Along The Lines
The CT Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is embarking on an ambitious initiative to elevate bus services across the state. Tune into the latest episode of Along the Lines as host Ben Limmer discusses Connecticut's visionary plan with guests Lisa Rivers from CTDOT and Michael Carroll of Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT). Backed by substantial investments from Governor Lamont and the State Legislature, this plan addresses the pressing need for expanded bus service. Tune in for insights and updates.
info_outlineWe all know green commuting is great for the earth and our state, but most residents don’t think about it as part of their day-to-day life. On this episode, we speak with three guests who DO use green commuting options on a daily basis, and they have some wonderful and positive stories to tell about how it has impacted their lives.
Sit back, listen, and hear some exciting and inspiring stories about real people using public transportation in Connecticut. And, we promise you it will be “engaging”!