Lots of amazing events coming this fall including a fan favorite: transportation trivia. Set your calendars for Wednesday, September 27 at 6pm at Stout NYC. October brings Transportation Camp. Happy hours and a park cleanup are coming. Speed networking. Our holiday party! Also, remember to submit your nomination for a seat on your board for the 2024 term. Lots to do and oh so very little time. Enjoy it while you can.
2024 Elections
Election Timeline for Local and International. There are multiple links on the “Interest Form” page below, depending on what seat you’re interested in. Follow the highlighted text for all your options. I will say that being on the local NYC board for the past two years has helped me to appreciate my time in New York/New Jersey more. You make amazing connections and get a chance to guide and plan the monthly events we have here. NYC is the biggest chapter by far. If you’re interested, don’t hesitate! Or if you know someone who is—this is your sign to nudge them.
October 9, 2023 – Election ballots will be sent out by YPT International to eligible voting Members for all Chapter and International elections.
October 23, 2023 – Online elections close at 11:59 PM EDT. International and Chapter Board members and nominees will be notified of election results shortly thereafter.
November 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023 – Board Transition Period
January 1, 2024 – New term begins for International and Chapter Boards.
September 2023 Events
Skillshare: Airports 101 (Tue. Sept 12)
Dive into the fascinating world of airport planning in this **virtual** YPT-NYC talk with experts Aarshabh Misra and Kristy Tu (chapter chair) from Arup. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about how airports work, you’ll learn about the intricate details and challenges faced by planners.
We will begin the talk with Terminals and Airside Planning, then move to Landside Planning.
This event is open to YPT members and non-members.
Join us for another fun YPT happy hour! This month, we’ll be going to Smith Street in Boerum Hill (Brooklyn) to one of our favorite beer gardens, Black Forest!
Note: there are two Black Forest locations, this one is SMITH Street.
Registration on Eventbrite is encouraged, but not mandatory.
Ever yearned to share your knowledge of transit fare card names? Or what the 3rd oldest subway system in the world is? Or what the original name of the PATH train was?
Great news: YPT-NYC, APA-NY and WTS-NJ are delighted to bring back our legendary annual trivia night, this year BIGGER and better at Stout NYC (33rd St location by Penn Station).
The event will be held Wednesday, September 27th. Doors will open at 6:00pm, with trivia to start at 7:00pm.
You must purchase a ticket in advance on Eventbrite. This year, a drink ticket and food are included with your ticket! Grab some friends and come join us for a chance to reign supreme amongst the transportation trivia goers of New York.
Register on Eventbrite here:
Upcoming Events
TransportationCamp NYC 2023
TransportationCamp NYC will be held on Saturday, October 14th at NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering in Downtown Brooklyn. Join us to discuss all things transportation and connect with professionals, students, and enthusiasts alike!
TransportationCamp is an unconference – every session is planned, proposed, and led by attendees like you. It’s the perfect opportunity to share your transportation passion with a diverse gathering of individuals from our multidisciplinary industry.
Join us for a special happy hour, in partnership with TransportationCamp NYC. All are welcome, including non-TCNYC attendees.
Although participation in TCNYC is not required, do check out the agenda and consider signing up! As an “unconference” for mobility enthusiasts, it’s not one to be missed. And if you’re attending, take advantage of this opportunity to hear about session proposals and meet other TCNYC participants in a casual setting. We’ll also have an interactive networking game with fun prizes to be won!
Exclusive perk: Each YPT-NYC member will receive one complimentary drink (while supplies last).
JFK Terminal 5 tour & TWA Hotel happy hour
When: Friday, November 3 (1:45-6:30pm)
Where: Terminal 5, John F. Kennedy International Airport, Queens, NY 11430
How: Register on Eventbrite. As a courtesy to others, please only sign up if you’re sure you can make it.
Hot on the heels of our Airport Planning 101 talk, join us for an exclusive tour of JetBlue’s Terminal 5 at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). Here, we’ll learn how the New York-based airline transports millions of travelers every year, with a glimpse into its operation and construction of the new Terminal 6.
Our visit to JetBlue’s home will be followed by a short guided tour of the adjacent TWA Hotel, a restored 1962 terminal designed by Eero Saarinen. We’ll conclude the afternoon with a happy hour in the Sunken Lounge.
Heads up: This tour is capped at 18 people and is limited to members only. Your full name, gender and DOB (as per your government ID) are required in advance to access secure areas.
Upcoming Events
Speed Networking 2: The Speediest
September Events Recap
Happy Hour! Prost!
Trivia!
Reminder! YPT-NYC members get $15 off and a free tote bag when joining the NYC Transit Museum! Use Code I’m YPT15 at checkout.
Monthly Member Profile
Sara Appleton (I have this)
Young Professionals in Transportation – New York City (YPT-NYC) is the local chapter of Young Professionals in Transportation International, a nonprofit coalition of organizations, which helps professional development, fellowship, and networking for young professionals in the transportation field. YPT-NYC’s members keep the Greater New York City region moving while providing a space for growing skills, sharing knowledge, and expanding professional networks.
YPT-NYC August NewsletterA Night At The Transit Museum
Hi YPTers! It’s August, and everyone’s tired and enjoying the summer. We’ve got some cool events. One in particular: we’re taking over the Transit Museum on Thursday, 8/17 from 5:30-7pm. It’s unique because the museum isn’t usually open after 4pm—and we’ll have it to ourselves! It’s first come, first served, and there are 30 seats available. Make sure you sign up quickly so you can reserve your spot! Read more inside.
Housekeeping: Upcoming Elections for 2024 Board! Ever wanted to help plan our amazing events? Work on raising $$? Get some leadership experience? Want to write this newsletter? Join the Board for the 2024 YPT-NYC session! Want to have an even larger view? Run for the International Board! Check out the interest forms on the YPT website. I can tell you that it’s been a great honor and a ton of fun to serve this board for the last 2 years! Note that you must be an active YPT-NYC dues-paying member to run in any YPT election. Make sure your membership is up to date and watch this space—and our social media for more information.
August Events
Two (more) events this month. We’ve got a lot of heavy events coming in September and October so enjoy the breather before a hectic (fun) fall!
Night at the Transit Museum (August 17th) When: Thursday, August 17th, 5:30-7:30pmWhere: New York Transit Museum 99 Schermerhorn Street Brooklyn, NY 11201How & How Much: Register here. Note this event is not free, but it is cheaper than normal admission! Love the movie Night at the Museum but are more into vintage trains than dinosaurs? Well – we have just the event for you at one of our most favorite places in the city!YPT-NYC is excited to invite you to our first-ever Night at the (Transit) Museum!The evening will involve a short tour, a fun and challenging team scavenger hunt, and then time for you to wander the museum. The Museum will be open after hours EXCLUSIVELY for our YPT-NYC group after the museum closes to the general public – allowing you all of the access to the trains and exclusive time with museum staff! And even better: no line ups, and you get to score a reduced rate with us! Spots are limited to 30 attendees so sign up soon! If you are available after the tour, we will then convene an informal happy hour nearby. Join us! For more details on visiting the Transit Museum, please see this link: https://www.nytransitmuseum.org/knowbeforeyouvisit/***Not already a YPT-NYC member? Join us today for access to all our upcoming events and networking opportunities.
This month, join us in Queens as we head to our summer favorite, CultureLab in Long Island City. Grab a drink and mingle with folks across transportation in one of the venue’s many galleries. Don’t forget to check out the gantry while you’re there. This event is open to YPT members and guests.
Call for VolunteersTransportationCamp NYC: Saturday October 14
>>REGISTER HERE!<< TransportationCamp NYC is happening again in person this fall! Planning is already underway, and the TCamp Planning Committee is looking for additional volunteers to join the team and support logistics, sponsorships and day-of-event operations. Don’t miss this chance to be a part of an awesome “unconference”. If you’re interested in getting involved, email Matthew Fiore at matthewfiore@nyu.edu.
Looking ahead
We’ve got SO MANY special events planned for late September and October. What’s chill this fall? Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest events and more. 🍂 And the fun doesn’t stop here — we’re planning picnics and more behind-the-scenes tours throughout September and October. 🍂
July recap
Two great July events: July Happy Hour and the Central Park Hang!
SO many friends! And how!
Yes, we do go outside!
August Monthly Member ProfileMeera Kumar \\ Program Manager at Newlab
Meera Kumar (she/her) is a Program Manager at Newlab, where she pilots emerging technologies in collaboration with NYC DOT to help build toward a safe and sustainable transportation future. Prior to working at Newlab, Meera was on the venture team at the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, where she helped develop programs to support start-up founders across the state. She lives in the Heights in Jersey City with her partner. What’s your favorite YPT memory? Big fan of anything in Jersey City! Loved the Jersey City Walking tour last September. If you could snap your fingers and make one change to regional transportation, what would it be? There are so many things I want to see – multimodal integration so that we don’t have to have a bunch of different transit apps and cards, better accessibility across all our stations, more regular PATH service, more Citibike stations and docks. The one thing that would make the biggest difference however – is really disincentivizing cars. More than just the congestion charge, I think charging vehicle-owners an absurd amount to drive into the city and to park overnight would improve everything else – bus timeliness, pedestrian and cyclist safety, air quality, noise pollution, etc. What’s your favorite way to get around the YPT-NYC region? I’m a big fan of cycling – and find myself becoming more of a bus fan. It’s so convenient – if only buses were more timely! What sparked your passion to work in the transportation industry? I grew up in Arizona and didn’t have a car as a teenager – so I was one of a handful of people who took the city bus. I even wrote my college application essay about riding the bus. I went to graduate school for planning after realizing that my love of cities was a viable career path! What are you currently working on that you’re most excited about? I’m currently working with NYC DOT to pilot outdoor e-bike charging solutions for delivery workers. Do you have a favorite transportation book, blog, newsletter, podcast, or YouTube channel? I subscribe to Streetbeat by John Surico and think it’s a great read (https://streetbeat.substack.com). In general, I think all urbanists – not just transportation folks – should read Capital City by Samuel Stein.
Young Professionals in Transportation – New York City (YPT-NYC) is the local chapter of Young Professionals in Transportation International, a nonprofit coalition of organizations, which helps professional development, fellowship, and networking for young professionals in the transportation field. YPT-NYC’s members keep the Greater New York City region moving while providing a space for growing skills, sharing knowledge, and expanding professional networks.
Hi YPTers! Kristy here with a mid-year message and note of gratitude from the YPT-NYC Board! Just like that, 2023 has reached its mid-way mark – and we have been having a blast with you all! We’ve had the pleasure of hosting you on fun tours, for informative lunch and learns; resurrected the legendary YPT-APA scavenger hunt and speed networking events; seen you at several lively happy hours, and more! It warms my heart to see so many new members and familiar faces join us at these events as it makes them truly spectacular. I’m looking forward to seeing many of you at our warm-weather events this summer and later this fall. We promise we have many more fun activities in the works! As always, if you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to drop us a line at yptnyc@gmail.com. Yours truly,Kristy Word. —Sam
July’s events Part I
We’re still nailing down some details for July, which means some really exciting events are coming. Stay tuned for an updated version of this email with more details in the coming week.
Jersey City Happy Hour (July 13) When: Thursday, July 13, 6:00-8:00 PMWhere: Zeppelin Hall Beer Garden, 88 Liberty View Drive, Jersey City, NJHow: Register on Eventbrite This month, we’re jumping on the PATH and heading to Zeppelin Hall in Jersey City. Grab a drink (or pretzel) and mingle with folks across transportation. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out some of the many pedestrian plazas! This event is open to YPT members and guests. To learn more about YPT-NYC, visit yptnyc.org. Add event to calendarApple • Google • Outlook • Yahoo
YPT Central Park Picnic (July 29)Rain date August 5. When: Saturday, July 29, 2:00-5:00 PMWhere: The Great Lawn 79th Street & 85th Street, New York, NY 10024 New York, NY 10024How: Register on Eventbrite Summer’s in full swing, which means it’s time for our annual YPT picnic. Join us for an afternoon of fun and chats on July 29 (rain date: August 5) as we take over a corner of the Great Lawn, located between 79th and 85th streets in the middle of Central Park. Bring your own blanket and beverages (no glass bottles, please) and we’ll provide light refreshments. RSVP on Eventbrite to receive updates on where to find us closer to the day.This event is open to YPT members and guests. To learn more about YPT-NYC, visit yptnyc.org. Add event to calendarApple • Google • Outlook • Yahoo
TransportationCamp NYC is happening again in person this fall! Planning is already underway, and the TCamp Planning Committee is looking for additional volunteers to join the team and support logistics, sponsorships and day-of-event operations. Don’t miss this chance to be a part of an awesome “unconference”. If you’re interested in getting involved, email Matthew Fiore at matthewfiore@nyu.edu.
Looking ahead
We’ve got TWO other special events planned for late July and/or early August. I’ll be updating this email with more information as we get it. You’re not going to want to miss these! What’s hot this summer? Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest events and more. ☀️And the fun doesn’t stop here — we’re planning picnics and more behind-the-scenes tours throughout August and September.
June recap
Two great June events: SIMS facility tour and Pride Happy Hour!
July Monthly Member Profile
Olivia Limone is currently the Assistant Manager of Airport Maintenance at LaGuardia Airport. Prior to her current role, Olivia was a Leadership Fellow, a two-year rotational fellowship program with the Port Authority of NY & NJ. Olivia has a Masters in Urban Planning from NYU Wagner, where she focused her studies on transportation and sustainability. She currently lives in Manhattan, and grew up on Staten Island. Outside of work, Olivia loves to birdwatch and play board games. What’s your favorite YPT memory? It’s too hard to choose one, but it’d have to be from the wonderful tours YPT sponsors. Gazing down on Grand Central from a catwalk high above, everyone covering their ears as a 6 train screeches by at Old City Hall Station, or standing on the bridge of the Staten Island Ferry, I really appreciate the opportunity to get behind the scenes and learn about how our transportation system works. If you could snap your fingers and make one change to regional transportation, what would it be? Improve first/last-mile connectivity! I think that’s a major hurdle to people taking public transportation. I love the idea of bike-share or bike parking at major transit hubs. I’d also be interested in learning other innovative and accessible solutions that other places have implemented. What’s your favorite way to get around the YPT-NYC region? I love walking places when I have the time. Having grown up on Staten Island, I will always have a big place in my heart for the Staten Island Ferry though. What sparked your passion to work in the transportation industry? I knew from an early age I wanted to pursue a career in public service. Simultaneously, I have always had an interest in transportation. I took a class on New York policy and planning while I was in undergrad which opened my eyes to transportation planning as a field. I thought it was a perfect way to meld those two areas. Transportation is something that impacts both people and the environment everyday, and helping make that the best it can be for people is what calls me to public service. While transportation obviously impacts people everywhere, I especially love working in the transportation industry in a uniquely complex place like the NYC-region. What career advice would you give to other YPTers interested in your career path? Be a sponge. Learn about everything you can from everyone — both to network and gain industry knowledge. I love learning people’s career paths. Everyone’s looks different. You can learn about careers you didn’t even know existed. It’s also valuable to gain on-the-job knowledge — to learn more about the agency you work for, enhance your technical skills, and grow your knowledge in different areas of transportation. What famous celebrity do you think should be given the opportunity to voice a NYCT Subway announcement? Steve Buscemi; native New Yorker, great actor, and I love that he was an FDNY firefighter. What upcoming YPT event are you looking forward to the most in 2023? Trivia! I’m not necessarily saying I’m the best person to have on your team, but I do love coming away with tons of more transportation fun facts.
This month, we’re proud to celebrate Pride Month at YPT. While we celebrate Pride every day – June is a special time to lift up our LGBTQ+ community. YPT is committed to being a safe space for all to connect in their truest, and most authentic way.
We want to recognize the staunch advocates and true community builders who put up the fight for freedom, joy and safety for the queer community. We have so much to thank them for and continue to work to ensure we are building a more equal and inclusive future for all.
On that note, we hope to see you at our Pride-themed Happy Hour at Branded Saloon in Brooklyn on June 21 — all are welcome!
(And of course, let’s not forget a shoutout to Secretary Buttigieg!)
Adorable graphics from Transit Supply — check our their transit-themed Pride Collection!
This month’s events DSNY recycling facility tour (June 12) ♻️
When: Monday, June 12, 3:00-4:30 PM Where: Sims Municipal Recycling – Sunset Park Material Recovery Facility, 472 2nd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11232 How: Register on Eventbrite and complete a waiver prior to the event.
Ever curious where your curbside recycling (metal, glass and plastic) ends up? Join YPT-NYC for a guided tour as we explore part of this 140,000 sq ft building, which is the largest commingled recycling facility in the United States. This tour is exclusively for YPT members. Register now
Pride happy hour (June 21) 🏳️🌈
When: Wednesday, June 21, 5:30-8:00 PM Where: Branded Saloon, 603 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238 How:Register on Eventbrite
What better way to kick off Pride weekend than with your friends at YPT? Grab a drink and mingle with YPTers across transportation. Plus, come early to get a transit-themed Pride sticker to take home! We’re proud to support one of Brooklyn’s most loved LGBTQ+ saloons – all are welcome. Register now
Call for volunteers TransportationCamp NYC TransportationCamp NYC is happening again in person this fall! Planning is already underway, and the TCamp Planning Committee is looking for additional volunteers to join the team and support logistics, sponsorships and day-of-event operations. Don’t miss this chance to be a part of an awesome “unconference”.
If you’re interested in getting involved, email Matthew Fiore at matthewfiore@nyu.edu.
Looking ahead What’s hot this summer? Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest events and more. ☀️And the fun doesn’t stop here — we’re planning picnics and more behind-the-scenes tours throughout July and August.
May recap We kicked off May with Rail Ops 101, a virtual session led by Jeff Krassner, Director of Service Delivery Innovation for Keolis Commuter Services, operating partner for the MBTA’s Commuter Rail Network. He gave us a peek into everyday railroad complexities and operating practices, including the Northeast Operating Rules Advisory Committee (NORAC) rulebook, which governs most railroad operations in Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. We then toured Midtown Manhattan with our friends at NYCDOT and WEBike, where we saw some of the new bike infrastructure projects in action. We ended May with a visit to LaGuardia Airport, where we learnt about everything from the airfield to the aircraft rescue and firefighting unit. A special thanks to former YPT-NYC board member Olya Arakhouskaya, as well as Chris Rhoads with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for leading the tour. Chris will be retiring later this year and we wish him the best of luck after a whirlwind career in aviation.
When: Wednesday, May 10 at 12:15 PM Where: Zoom (online) How: Register on Eventbrite to receive the Zoom link
Join YPT-NYC as we learn about how railroads actually operate and manage to stay *on track*! During this virtual skillshare, we will hear from Jeff Kessler, Director of Service Delivery Innovation for Keolis Commuter Services, operating partner for the MBTA’s Commuter Rail Network, and Regional Director of YPT Mid-Atlantic.
Jeff will give us a peek into everyday railroad complexities and operating practices, including the Northeast Operating Rules Advisory Committee (NORAC) rulebook, which governs most railroad operations in Mid-Atlantic and Northeast
Monthly Happy Hour: The Joyce Public House
When: Thursday, May 11, 2023 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: The Joyce Public House 315 West 39th Street New York, NY 10018
💯 Fun Activity Alert 🚨 : YPT-NYC x Open Streets on Park Slope’s 5th Ave
When: Saturday May 13th, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (come at 12:00 PM for the presentation, otherwise just drop by)
Where: 12:00 PM – Meet at 178 5th Ave, Park Slope (between Berkeley Pl and Lincoln Pl). 12:30 PM – Happy hour at Miti Miti (138 5th Ave) How: Registration via Eventbrite encouraged, or just drop by
YPT-NYC is joining forces with StreetLab, NYC DOT and the Park Slope 5th Ave BID for a special Open Streets event.
Come out and support the 5th Ave Open Street program by participating in an activity with the community and hanging out at one of the local establishments. We will also learn from NYC DOT staff about the Open Streets program and what it takes to run it. (This will be a casual program – feel free to drop by anytime.)
Midtown Manhattan Bike Tour with NYCDOT and WEBike!
When: Sunday, May 21st, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Where: Meet at Union Square, ride through Midtown Manhattan How: Registration via Eventbrite required
The WEBike + NYC DOT + YPT Bike Tour is back for Bike Month!
Ride through Union Square, Chelsea, and Midtown and learn about some of the great new bike infrastructure projects from NYC DOT!
A brunch gathering will be held at the end (excellent motivation!)
LaGuardia Airport Tour with PANYNJ
When: Monday, May 22 at 8:45 AM-2:00 PM (AM/PM options available) Where: LaGuardia Airport, Queens, NY How: Register on Eventbrite by May 11. Space is limited and open to YPT members only.
Our friends at PANYNJ are running another amazing tour of LGA. This behind-the-scenes tour will explain what LGA does and how its role in U.S. aviation has evolved since opening in 1939.
You’ll see firsthand how an airport operates in a guided visit of the landside and stunning new terminals (pre-security) and airside (post-security) areas, including runway deck, aircraft rescue and fire fighting (ARFF) and baggage screening facilities.
Due to the length of the event, morning (landside) and afternoon (airside) options will be offered
Call for Volunteers! Transportation Camp New York 2023
TransportationCamp NYC is happening again in person this fall! Planning is already underway, and the TCamp Planning Committee is looking for additional volunteers to join the team and support logistics, sponsorships, and day-of-event operations.
If you’re interested in getting involved, please email Matthew Fiore at matthewfiore@nyu.edu.
Come be a part of this awesome “unconference!”
A Look Ahead
What’s coming up in June and beyond? More info to come: follow us on Instagram or LinkedIn for up-to-the-minute information.
The fun doesn’t stop here – get hyped for **YPT Summer**. We’re planning a couple of fun and transportation-oriented events through June, July and August. Hint: some will involve patios.
April Recap We had so much fun at happy hour, learning about data science with Ayanthi G. and Lisa F., and the return of the APA-YPT scavenger hunt in April! See below for some highlights.
Hey YPT-NYC,
This month, we’re proud to celebrate Pride Month at YPT. While we celebrate Pride every day – June is a special time to lift up our LGBTQ+ community. YPT is committed to being a safe space for all to connect in their truest, and most authentic way. We want to recognize the staunch advocates and true community builders who put up the fight for freedom, joy and safety for the queer community. We have so much to thank them for and continue to work to ensure we are building a more equal and inclusive future for all.
On that note, we hope to see you at our Pride-themed Happy Hour at Branded Saloon in Brooklyn on June 21 — all are welcome!
(And of course, let’s not forget a shoutout to Secretary Buttigieg!)
Adorable graphics from Transit Supply — check our their transit-themed Pride Collection!
This month’s events
DSNY recycling facility tour (June 12) ♻️When: Monday, June 12, 3:00-4:30 PM Where: Sims Municipal Recycling – Sunset Park Material Recovery Facility, 472 2nd Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11232 How: Register on Eventbrite and complete a waiver prior to the event. Ever curious where your curbside recycling (metal, glass and plastic) ends up? Join YPT-NYC for a guided tour as we explore part of this 140,000 sq ft building, which is the largest commingled recycling facility in the United States. This tour is exclusively for YPT members.
Pride happy hour (June 21) 🏳️🌈When: Wednesday, June 21, 5:30-8:00 PM Where: Branded Saloon, 603 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238 How:Register on Eventbrite What better way to kick off Pride weekend than with your friends at YPT? Grab a drink and mingle with YPTers across transportation. Plus, come early to get a transit-themed Pride sticker to take home! We’re proud to support one of Brooklyn’s most loved LGBTQ+ saloons – all are welcome.
TransportationCamp NYC is happening again in person this fall! Planning is already underway, and the TCamp Planning Committee is looking for additional volunteers to join the team and support logistics, sponsorships and day-of-event operations. Don’t miss this chance to be a part of an awesome “unconference”. If you’re interested in getting involved, email Matthew Fiore at matthewfiore@nyu.edu.
Looking ahead
What’s hot this summer? Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest events and more. ☀️And the fun doesn’t stop here — we’re planning picnics and more behind-the-scenes tours throughout July and August.
May recap
We kicked off May with Rail Ops 101, a virtual session led by Jeff Krassner, Director of Service Delivery Innovation for Keolis Commuter Services, operating partner for the MBTA’s Commuter Rail Network. He gave us a peek into everyday railroad complexities and operating practices, including the Northeast Operating Rules Advisory Committee (NORAC) rulebook, which governs most railroad operations in Mid-Atlantic and Northeast.
We then toured Midtown Manhattan with our friends at NYCDOT and WEBike, where we saw some of the new bike infrastructure projects in action.
We ended May with a visit to LaGuardia Airport, where we learnt about everything from the airfield to the aircraft rescue and firefighting unit. A special thanks to former YPT-NYC board member Olya Arakhouskaya, as well as Chris Rhoads with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for leading the tour. Chris will be retiring later this year and we wish him the best of luck after a whirlwind career in aviation.
This month we celebrate third spring, AAPI heritage month and so. many. events.
April showers have brought May flowers *and* a packed month of fun YPT-NYC programming!
We have five stellar events this month(!!), including two tours, a happy hour, an online skillshare, and a special Open Streets collab – something for everyone! And amazingly – thanks to our incredibly generous sponsors and collaborators – every single one of them is free to attend! Hope to see you out!
It’s also AAPI Heritage Month and YPT-NYC wanted to acknowledge the leaders and path-builders of Asian-American and Pacific Islander descent that are helping us build a more resilient and equitable system. I’ll keep it short and sweet this month because there’s a jampack of content below.
—Sam and Kristy, YPT-NYC Comms & Chair and liberal users of exclamation points(!)
When: Wednesday, May 10 at 12:15 PM Where: Zoom (online) How: Register on Eventbrite to receive the Zoom link
Join YPT-NYC as we learn about how railroads actually operate and manage to stay *on track*! During this virtual skillshare, we will hear from Jeff Kessler, Director of Service Delivery Innovation for Keolis Commuter Services, operating partner for the MBTA’s Commuter Rail Network, and Regional Director of YPT Mid-Atlantic.
Jeff will give us a peek into everyday railroad complexities and operating practices, including the Northeast Operating Rules Advisory Committee (NORAC) rulebook, which governs most railroad operations in Mid-Atlantic and Northeast
Monthly Happy Hour: The Joyce Public House
When: Thursday, May 11, 2023 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: The Joyce Public House 315 West 39th Street New York, NY 10018
💯 Fun Activity Alert 🚨 : YPT-NYC x Open Streets on Park Slope’s 5th Ave
When: Saturday May 13th, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (come at 12:00 PM for the presentation, otherwise just drop by)
Where: 12:00 PM – Meet at 178 5th Ave, Park Slope (between Berkeley Pl and Lincoln Pl). 12:30 PM – Happy hour at Miti Miti (138 5th Ave) How: Registration via Eventbrite encouraged, or just drop by
YPT-NYC is joining forces with StreetLab, NYC DOT and the Park Slope 5th Ave BID for a special Open Streets event.
Come out and support the 5th Ave Open Street program by participating in an activity with the community and hanging out at one of the local establishments. We will also learn from NYC DOT staff about the Open Streets program and what it takes to run it. (This will be a casual program – feel free to drop by anytime.)
Midtown Manhattan Bike Tour with NYCDOT and WEBike!
When: Sunday, May 21st, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Where: Meet at Union Square, ride through Midtown Manhattan How: Registration via Eventbrite required
The WEBike + NYC DOT + YPT Bike Tour is back for Bike Month!
Ride through Union Square, Chelsea, and Midtown and learn about some of the great new bike infrastructure projects from NYC DOT!
A brunch gathering will be held at the end (excellent motivation!)
LaGuardia Airport Tour with PANYNJ
When: Monday, May 22 at 8:45 AM-2:00 PM (AM/PM options available) Where: LaGuardia Airport, Queens, NY How: Register on Eventbrite by May 11. Space is limited and open to YPT members only.
Our friends at PANYNJ are running another amazing tour of LGA. This behind-the-scenes tour will explain what LGA does and how its role in U.S. aviation has evolved since opening in 1939.
You’ll see firsthand how an airport operates in a guided visit of the landside and stunning new terminals (pre-security) and airside (post-security) areas, including runway deck, aircraft rescue and fire fighting (ARFF) and baggage screening facilities.
Due to the length of the event, morning (landside) and afternoon (airside) options will be offered
Call for Volunteers! Transportation Camp New York 2023
TransportationCamp NYC is happening again in person this fall! Planning is already underway, and the TCamp Planning Committee is looking for additional volunteers to join the team and support logistics, sponsorships, and day-of-event operations.
If you’re interested in getting involved, please email Matthew Fiore at matthewfiore@nyu.edu.
Come be a part of this awesome “unconference!”
A Look Ahead
What’s coming up in June and beyond? More info to come: follow us on Instagram or LinkedIn for up-to-the-minute information.
The fun doesn’t stop here – get hyped for **YPT Summer**. We’re planning a couple of fun and transportation-oriented events through June, July and August. Hint: some will involve patios.
April Recap We had so much fun at happy hour, learning about data science with Ayanthi G. and Lisa F., and the return of the APA-YPT scavenger hunt in April! See below for some highlights.
It’s Earth Month, so it’s time to talk about our planet. Quickly: we know cars are killing it, car culture is perpetuating it, and EVs alone won’t save it. Instead, it’s going to take a monumental effort from everyone and cooperation from anyone to make a dent. But we have a job to do.
Being part of YPT is step zero. Step one: convince your suburban parents to drive a little less. Step two: convince your suburban parents’ friends that you’re not trying to ruin their good time. Step three: call your lawmaker and convince them we need more money to help subsidize walking and biking, more attention to make it safer, and more space to do it all the time.
YPT-NYC and APA-NY present… the 2023 Transportation Scavenger Hunt!
When: Saturday, April 15th 10:30am – 4:00pm (Rain date: April 22) Where: Around NYC’s transportation system! (Meeting Point: Battery Park)
How: Register on Eventbrite ($5/person or $20/team + fees (sorry!))
Young Professionals in Transportation-NYC Chapter (YPT-NYC) and American Planning Association New York Metro Chapter (APA-NY) are excited to bring back our Transportation Scavenger Hunt! Spend the day solving clues and snapping pics around the city with your best buds in celebration of NYC’s transportation system. Bring yourself or enter a team of up to 5 for a chance to win some cool prizes and major bragging rights! All you need to participate is a smartphone with WhatsApp (or a team member with WhatsApp) and a MetroCard/OMNY card! Thanks to our partners for helping make this event happen. Go ride a Citibike!
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April Happy Hour:
Earth Day Presents…Ainslie Bowery
When: Wednesday, April 5, 6:00pm – later than 6:00pm
Where: Ainslie Bowery, 199 Bowery, New York, NY 10002 Join YPT-NYC for our April Happy Hour hangout at Ainslie in Bowery and grab some beers with peers! Saunter around and enjoy the beer garden and yard games.
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Skillshare Alert 🚨 :
Green Day Presents…Alightings and Algorithms
Green Day Presents…Alightings and Algorithms
When: Monday, April 17 · 6:30 – 7:30pm EDT
Where: Online (link provided with registration)
How: Register through Eventbrite (free!)
Where data science meets transportation planning! Come join us for a virtual data science 101 with Ayanthi Gunawardana, Senior Data Analyst at 1-800-FLOWERS, former NYCDOT data analyst and current board member of R Ladies NYC, and Lisa Mae Fiedler, Acting Manager, Data & Analytics at MTA.
Ayanthi & Lisa will give us an introductory overview of: • Data languages: what are different languages and what can you do differently with different tools? • “What should I do with all of this data?”: Insight into basic tasks and things that you should know • If you want to work in data – what are some things that you should know or learn? • How do policymakers & agencies use insights from the ever-growing pool of available data?
This talk will be accessible for learners of all levels, in particular those new and curious, and focus on application (ie will not be a step-by-step tutorial) of any specific data languages.
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Call for Volunteers! Transportation Camp New York 2023 TransportationCamp NYC is happening again in person this fall! Planning is already underway, and the TCamp Planning Committee is looking for additional volunteers to join the team and support logistics, sponsorships, and day-of-event operations.
If you’re interested in getting involved, please email Matthew Fiore at matthewfiore@nyu.edu.
Come be a part of this awesome “unconference!”
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A Look Ahead
What’s coming up in May? More info to come: follow us on Instagram or LinkedIn for up-to-the-minute information. • May Happy Hour! Thursday, May 11th @ 5:30pm, at The Joyce Public House (315 W 39th St) • Save the date: YPT-NYC takes over the 5th Ave Open Street with StreetLab and NYCDOT! Saturday, May 13th • Other events, dates/times TBD: o YPT goes to LGA—again! o YPT learns about rail operations—and how! o YPT goes biking—who, us?!
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March Recap
Panel Event: Spotlighting Emerging Women Leaders in Transportation Thanks to our panelists Sarah Meyer, Ally Bechtel, and Tara Pham for a phenomenal discussion on success and challenges during their careers in transportation. As always, thanks to our friends at WTS for helping us pull this off!
Boyce Technologies Tour YPT-NYC had some seriously cool access via a behind-the-scenes tour of Boyce Technologies’ Long Island City facility on March 30. With 24/7 service, historic station architecture and complex communications systems, the MTA relies on Boyce to provide station help points, dispatch systems, information screens (and more!) to keep our city’s subways and trains moving and safe.
Thanks to all who attended and Tom Powell for giving us the VIP tour!
In March we celebrate Women’s History Month, honoring each year the women who have and continued to contribute to our field, in planning, engineering, policy, or other transportation field. We recognize the great strides that women make, year after year, while also acknowledging the work left to be done to achieve equity and parity in the workplace and in the world. Join us this month as we interview emerging women in the industry and bring ourselves to a wonderful women-owned business for happy hour. We’re also thinking about things like:How are cities addressing barriers to transportation for women around the world?Travel cost disparity for womenRethinking public transportation for women’s security and safety —Sam
Extremely Fun and Good March & April Events
YPT-NYC x WTS-GNYSpotlighting Women Leaders in Transportation
Where?Online via Zoom (link with registration) When?Wednesday, March 22, 12:30-1:30 pm Join YPT-NYC and WTS-GNY for a fantastic panel discussion with three amazing women: Sarah Meyer, Allyson Bechtel and Tara Pham. During this virtual lunchtime panel, we will hear from and celebrate inspiring women who are leading the way in the local transportation field.
Boyce Technologies TourWhere?Boyce Technologies, 47-22 Pearson Pl 47-22 Pearson Place Queens, NY 11101 When?Thursday, March 30, 1:30-3:00 pm Join YPT-NYC for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour to learn about the technologies the MTA relies to keep us moving and safe.
April Happy Hour:Ainslie BoweryWhere?Ainslie Bowery, 199 Bowery, New York, NY 10002 When?Wednesday, April 5, 6pm Join YPT-NYC for our April Happy Hour hangout at Ainslie in Bowery – Wed April 5 at 6 pm. Saunter around and enjoy the beer garden and yard games. (Registration opens 3/13)
SAVE THE DATE! Saturday, April 15 (April 22 rain date) The annual scavenger hunt is back! YPT-NYC is partnering with APA-New York Metro for a day of fun in the NYC sun where teams will run around the city to find cool transportation-related stuff. Details to follow shortly. Make sure you’re following YPT-NYC on Instagram and Twitter and watch this space for a link to sign up!
Partner Events (March is stacked y’all)
TRECking in NYC: Transit Resilience for Essential Commuting (hybrid event): Monday, March 13, 12:00-1:30pm Join us as we launch TREC and share how we developed this human-centered and geospatial approach to the intersectional impact of climate change on transit and communities. We’ll share how TREC can give NYC decision-makers a more holistic picture to inform their infrastructure improvements, and empower local community organizations to advocate for their underserved constituents. Registration is open on Eventbrite!
TransportationCamp PHL (In-Person): Saturday, March 18, All DayTransportationCamp PHL is back in-person! Join our friends in Philly for their annual “un-conference” and talk about all things mobility. Registration is open on Eventbrite!
2nd Annual Women’s Month Bike Ride in the Bronx: Saturday, March 25, 12:00-3:00 pm This free event will be taking place again throughout the Bronx and Upper Manhattan. This year we will have an 9-mile All Level ride, and end with a rally and celebration. Registration is open!
March Member Profile: Alexandra Matri Aiello
Senior Manager of Planning, MTA Construction and Development
Alexandra Aiello is a Senior Manager of Planning at MTA Construction and Development. Prior to joining C&D in 2022, she was at MTA Bridges and Tunnels where she worked on the Central Business District Tolling Program and the Cashless Tolling Transition. Previously, she was a GIS Analyst at NJ Transit and was a political campaign organizer, which included President Barack Obama’s re-election campaign in Florida. She served on the YPT-NYC Board from 2015 to 2018 as Director of Programs and Deputy Chair. Originally from Callicoon Center, NY, a small hamlet in the Catskills, which doesn’t have a traffic light and boasts a population of 403, Alexandra has called the greater NYC area home for 10 years and lives in Brooklyn with her rescue cat, Smidge. Alexandra holds a Master of Public Administration from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Bachelor of Science in Philosophy from SUNY Oneonta. She is currently writing her first children’s book.
What’s your favorite YPT memory?I always loved the YPT Hikes where we’d take public transportation out to a hiking trail and spend the day together. I found that they are really great ways to get to know one another because there are so many opportunities for conversation. What’s your favorite way to get around the YPT-NYC region?Definitely by bicycle. As I write this, I’m on vacation in Iceland, and it makes me realize how lucky we are to have such a rich network of bicycle infrastructure in New York City as transportation in Iceland is very car-dependent. It’s also amazing what you can transport on just two wheels – one time, I even transported a rug on my bicycle’s rear rack and rode down to my apartment! What sparked your passion to work in the transportation industry?It all started with a bicycle. When a sharrow was installed in my neighborhood in Albany, I decided to try out city cycling. I immediately became smitten – you can only imagine how I felt after riding in a protected bike lane! Afterwards, I started bike commuting, read blogs about bicycle and pedestrian planning, and attended public city planning meetings. At the time, I was a campaign organizer, but knew I couldn’t do it forever because of the long hours and I would move so frequently from campaign to campaign that I didn’t live in the same zip code for more than six months. I knew that I still wanted to make a difference and decided that after the Obama campaign concluded, it would be so wonderful to work in a field I was so passionate about, so I sent an application off to Rutgers and the rest is history. The cause is personal as well – after losing my younger brother in 2020 from complications with depression, I am committed to promoting active transportation and its proven positive benefits on mental health. I also live with depression and generalized anxiety disorder and can relate all too well how it can be a struggle to simply get out of bed in the morning or not think you’re good enough, and while I certainly know a bike ride may not be able to solve all your problems, it can help ease stress and negative feelings. That is one of the reasons why I’m so passionate about improving access to bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. What career advice would you give to other YPTers interested in your career path?We have all been that person where you walk in the room and don’t know anyone. I absolutely encourage you to strike up a conversation because you never know where it may lead you. Taking those chances have helped me not only advance my career, but also gain friendships I cannot imagine my life without. Also, if you have FSA or HSA benefits at your job, I highly recommend that you use them. I find that a lot of people, especially those early in their careers, who have these benefits at work do not use them. I know it’s a little scary seeing money deducted from your paycheck but the way to look at it is: the money for healthcare and wellness products (bandages, sunscreen, over the counter medicines like Ibuprofen, etc.) is going to be spent anyway – might as well do so pre-tax! You come out ahead, I promise! What famous celebrity do you think should be given the opportunity to voice a NYCT Subway announcement?I think Tom Waits would be fantastic with his deep, gravelly voice. If you’ve ever listened to his album, “Nighthawks at the Diner,” I could see him giving every stop its own story. “Downtown Train” is one of his classic songs so I feel like it’s a natural fit.
February marks Black History Month, an opportunity to honor the contributions of our Black colleagues and friends. It’s also an introspective month when we think about wrongs of the past that have created injustices within society. We would like to acknowledge the work that still needs to be done while celebrating Black accomplishments, both past and present. YPT-NYC would like to highlight a few of the many Black Americans who have been influential in transportation:
Maya Angelou: Before her involvement in civil rights, art, poetry, and literature, Maya Angelou was San Francisco’s first Black female streetcar conductor for the Market Street Line. Garrett Morgan: Morgan came up with the idea for a three-signal traffic light. In 1923, he patented the three-position stoplight. Gladys West: She developed the mathematics behind what is now known as GPS. Arcola Philpott was the first Black and female streetcar operator hired August 1, 1944 by the Los Angeles Railway.
—Sam ————————————————————————- February Happy Hour + Board Game Night
Where? Peculiar Pub, 145 Bleecker Street New York, NY 10012
When? Thursday, February 16, 6:30-9:30 pm
Where? Peculiar Pub, 145 Bleecker Street New York, NY 10012
When? Thursday, February 16, 6:30-9:30 pm
Register Here Join us for our second happy hour of 2023 at Peculier Pub in the West Village. Come meet your fellow YPTers and have a beer (or other EANAB*) to help us kick off the best year yet. See you there at 6:30 pm or later on February 16. Open to YPT-NYC members and non-members.
We’ll bring some board games, and we also encourage you to bring your own board games – bonus points if they’re transportation themed!
Where? 77 Water Street 4th floor (Arup offices) Manhattan, NY 10005
When? Monday, February 27, 6:00-8:00 pm Register Here Join YPT-NYC chapter for our annual speed networking event—but now, back in person! Similar to speed dating, you’ll be paired up for lighting round introductions with others in the transportation industry. One of our most fun networking events of the year and not to be missed!
Open to YPT-NYC members and non-members. ————————————————————————- Upcoming Events
Keep an eye out for more details on an upcoming panel presented by YPT-NYC and WTS-GNY: Spotlighting Emerging Women Leaders in Transportation. We will spotlight and celebrate inspiring women who are leading the way in the local transportation field. Casual networking and a happy hour will follow. Date and location TBA and announced on our channels!
TransportationCamp PHL (In-Person): Sat, March 18, 2023 TransportationCamp PHL is back in-person! Join our friends in Philly for their annual “un-conference” and talk about all things mobility. Registration is open on Eventbrite!
YPT-NYC x WTS-GNYSpotlighting Women Leaders in Transportation
YPT-NYC 