Griffin Ong \\ WSP Consultant
Griffin Ong was born and raised in San Francisco and has spent time living in Los Angeles, Chicago, and now New York. He’s worked in education, healthcare, public policy, and now transportation. He’s (clearly) a fan of all things urban, but beyond this, also enjoys cooking, music, and photography!
Why transportation?
I’ve lived in cities and ridden public transportation for my entire life, so I’ve seen first-hand how crucial reliable transit is to communities and regions alike. A well-connected city can really improve the quality of life in a city. That in mind, I’ve always wanted to work in space where I can have an impact on how people experience and navigate our built environments.
What’s your favorite way to get around the YPT-NYC region?
The subway reigns supreme in NYC but I’ve also enjoyed walking places to really take in the city!
If you could snap your fingers and make one change to regional transportation, what would it be?
There are so many to choose from! I live in Brooklyn and would love to have better north-south subway connectivity within the borough as well as up to Queens. I also want more restrooms in subway stations!
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Take more risks and lean into uncertainty! You’ll be surprised where that attitude will take you.
What are you working on currently that you’re most excited about?
I’m currently working on some financial plans for transit agencies in the Bay Area. I love to work on projects that have a local impact and these are no exception.
Do you have a favorite transportation book, blog, newsletter, podcast, or YouTube channel?
I’m a policy nerd so I like reading through articles and research briefs from Brookings Metro and the Urban Wire from Urban Institute.
What is your favorite transportation-related fun fact or joke?
While extending the subway in San Francisco, construction crews encountered a sunken Gold Rush-era boat that had to be excavated. Only the hull of the boat was removed for the project – the rest still remains underground today!
YPT-NYC 