Many New Jersey communities want to make better use of their transit assets or shape land use patterns that support transit—but the first steps aren’t always clear.
This forum will bring together municipal leaders, downtown managers, and community partners to explore practical, achievable strategies for transit-friendly planning and transit-oriented development (TOD).
Why You Should Attend
LEARN FROM EXPERTS. Hear from state and local leaders about early actions, coordination, and available resources.
SEE WHAT WORKS. Discover lessons from New Jersey communities that are just getting started.
TAKE PART. Engage in interactive small group discussions to explore ideas and identify next steps for your own downtown or station area.
Featured Speakers
- Vanessa Quijano, Downtown NJ – Welcome & Introductions
- Stephanie DiPetrillo, NJTOD/VTC – TOD 101 Framework
- Megan Massey, NJ TRANSIT – Transit Friendly Planning at NJ TRANSIT
- Michael Manzella, NJDOT – Transit Village Initiative
- Keith Henderson, DCA – Neighborhood Preservation & Main Street programs
Interactive Small Group Discussions
HANDS-ON & COLLABORATIVE. Explore key topics with invited subject matter experts:
- Transit-Friendly Planning – Michael Swan, NJ TRANSIT
- Bicycle & Pedestrian Planning – Elise Bremer-Nei, NJDOT
- Real Estate & Development – Kristen Mitchell, NJ TRANSIT
- Special Improvement Districts – Vanessa Quijano, DNJ
- Transit Village Initiative – Jelena Lasko, NJDOT
- State Plan – Walter Lane, NJBAC/NJOPA
- Housing & Affordable Development – Jonathan Sternesky, NJHMFA
- Community Development, Michelle Osorio, NJEDA
Who Should Attend
Municipal leaders, downtown managers, planning staff, and community partners looking to take the first steps toward a transit-friendly downtown.
NJ TRANSIT Headquarters
Conference Room 2A – Town Hall
283-299 Market Street
Newark, NJ 07102
Registration closes Tuesday, June 2, 2026.
No late registrations can be accommodated.
