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Summit Sponsorships Selling Quickly!
Sponsorships are selling quickly for the 25th Annual Southern California Transportation Summit on Friday, Oct. 2 at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim!
Available sponsorships include:
Platinum Sponsorships – $12,500
• Board Dinner (2 LEFT)
• Luncheon Session (1 LEFT)
• Closing Session (3 available)
• VIP Reception (2 LEFT)
• Photo Activation (7 LEFT)
Gold Sponsorships – $6,500
• Breakout Session (4 LEFT)
• Breakfast Buffet (2 available)
• Ice Cream Break (2 available)
• Centerpieces (2 LEFT)
• Coffee Mug Promo Item (1 LEFT)
• Tumbler Promo Item (1 LEFT)
• Hand Sanitizer and Antibacterial Wipes (3 available)
• Clear Travel Bag (2 LEFT)
• Lapel Pin (1 available)
Copper Sponsorships – $3,500
Bronze Sponsorships – $1,500 (open to registered small businesses and nonprofits only)
Click here to view more information about the sponsorship packages or contact Kristin Slocum to sign up.
Mobility 21 Advisory Board Member Spotlight: Mike Roberts
Vice President, California Transportation Practice Lead
Michael Baker International
Mike Roberts has joined Michael Baker International as the California Transportation Practice Lead. In this role, he will drive continued client engagement, project excellence, and strategic growth across California’s transportation practice while helping to shape major statewide and regional transportation initiatives across the firm’s Western Region.
Mike is a seasoned leader with over 30 years of experience in transportation civil engineering design, management, and project leadership. He has extensive experience expanding highway design and production capabilities for teams across California, Oregon, and Washington – always collaborating closely with global counterparts and building strong relationships with federal, state, and local transportation stakeholders.
Mike is a trusted partner to public‑sector transportation agencies. He has successfully delivered major highway improvement projects throughout southern California for Caltrans Districts 5, 8, 11 as well as regional and local agencies, while leading and growing multidisciplinary teams and overseeing business development, P&L, resource planning, cost control, reporting and contract compliance. He holds an associate’s degree in mathematics from San Diego State University.
Mobility 21 Advisory Board Member Spotlight: Alex Medyn
Vice President, District Manager, LA/OC, FlatironDragados
Alex is a seasoned Project Executive with 30 years of experience delivering over $5.5B in transportation infrastructure through alternative and collaborative delivery methods, including progressive design-build (PDB) and CM/GC. He has successfully led complex, high-profile projects for major agencies such as Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC), Caltrans, Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), LACMTA, and San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) that demanded rigorous risk management, stakeholder coordination, and innovative solutions.
Alex brings proven expertise in building integrated teams and fostering a culture of collaboration on his work for a variety of Southern California transportation agencies and projects. His leadership ensures alignment between owners, designers, and contractors to develop cost models, negotiate Guaranteed Maximum Prices (GMPs), and deliver projects on time and within budget.
Metro D Line Extension Wilshire/Western Station entrance, showcasing modern canopy design and enhanced passenger access in Los Angeles, CA.
Summit Platinum Sponsor Spotlight: WSP
WSP is one of the world’s leading professional services firms, uniting its engineering, advisory and science-based expertise to shape communities to advance humanity. From local beginnings to a globe-spanning presence today, WSP operates in over 50 countries and employs approximately 73,000 professionals, known as Visioneers. Together we pioneer solutions and deliver innovative projects in the transportation, infrastructure, environment, buildings, energy, water, and mining and metals sectors.
Our work in transportation spans critical projects in aviation, transit, rail, maritime, highways, bridges, technology, safety and more. Locally, we recently provided environmental engineering and consulting services for LA Metro’s to deliver comprehensive (Purple) D Line Extension, which will enhance regional connectivity, support sustainable land use, and provide a vital transit solution for Los Angeles’ mobility network.
Transportation Corridor Agencies Named Organization of the Year by California Transportation Foundation
The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA), operators of The Toll Roads, has been named Organization of the Year by the California Transportation Foundation (CTF), recognizing the Agencies’ outstanding contributions to transportation excellence across California.
The prestigious award honors organizations that demonstrate exceptional performance, leadership and positive impact in the transportation sector. TCA was selected for its continued commitment to enhancing regional mobility, advancing innovative tolling solutions, maintaining strong fiscal stewardship and delivering meaningful benefits to the communities it serves.
“We are incredibly honored to be recognized by our peers across California’s transportation industry,” said Stephanie Oddo, Chair of the San Joaquin Hills Transportation Corridor Agency Board and Laguna Niguel Councilmember. “This award energizes us to continue setting new Benchmarks, whether improving the daily commute, expanding customer convenience through interoperability, or delivering programs that benefit our communities. We remain committed to being a model of innovation and service for Orange County and the state.”
TCA’s accomplishments over the past year include significant progress on the 241/91 Express Connector Project, expanded regional and national toll interoperability, and new partnerships such as toll processing services for the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority. The Agencies launched an expanded Disabled Veterans’ program, which reflects TCA’s commitment to honoring those who have served, while making it easier for veterans to access toll benefits in a way that respects their preferences. TCA also strengthened its financial position through early bond paydowns, credit rating upgrades, and continued clean audits, reinforcing its commitment to responsible fiscal management.
“This recognition from the California Transportation Foundation reflects the dedication of our Board, leadership and employees to delivering safe, reliable and forward-thinking transportation solutions for Southern California,” said Trish Kelley, Chair of the Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agency Board and Mission Viejo Councilmember. “From advancing major infrastructure projects like the 241/91 Express Connector to pioneering new tolling partnerships, TCA continues to demonstrate what is possible when strong leadership and innovation come together to improve mobility and quality of life.”
Beyond operations, TCA continues to prioritize community and environmental stewardship through education programs, conservation initiatives, and partnerships that enhance public safety and protect natural resources.
The award was presented at the annual CTF Transportation Awards Gala, which celebrates excellence across the state’s transportation sector, including leadership, projects and organizational achievement.
“We are proud to recognize the Transportation Corridor Agencies as our Organization of the Year,” said Laurie Berman, Chair of the California Transportation Foundation. “TCA’s achievements this past year exemplify excellence in transportation through its commitment to innovation, strong fiscal management, and meaningful community impact. Their work continues to help shape the future of mobility in California.”
From left: Kome Ajise (Executive Director, Southern California Association of Governments), Darren Kettle (Chief Executive Officer, Metrolink), Hunter Owens (Senior Advisor for Transit, Mobility Data, and Performance, California State Transportation Agency) and Marlon Regisford (District 7 Deputy District Director, California Department of Transportation) visit a contactless payments fare validator on a train platform at Los Angeles Union Station
Metrolink Contactless Payments Pilot Removes Barriers, Unlocks Potential of Regional Travel
Metrolink is preparing to launch a new contactless payment pilot on the San Bernardino Line and Arrow service, introducing a simpler and more flexible way for customers to ride. The pilot is expected to begin June 8 and will allow riders to pay by simply tapping a contactless credit card, mobile wallet or wearable device at station validators before boarding and once again when they arrive at their destination; no paper ticket or mobile app purchase will be required.
A customer can pay their Metrolink fare using a mobile device at a station validator.
This pilot marks a significant step in the broader regional effort to modernize public transportation and create a more seamless transit experience ahead of major global events, including this summer’s FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This project would not have been possible without the collaboration and funding support of regional and state partners, including the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), who share Metrolink’s commitment to improving accessibility and ease of use as we work to lure Southern Californians out of their single-occupancy vehicles and onto mass-transit alternatives.
“At its core, this pilot is about removing barriers,” Metrolink CEO Darren Kettle said during a recent media event previewing the technology. “You’ll simply be able to go to a platform, tap your credit card or your phone, get on the train, and go. We’re excited about launching it here on the San Bernardino Line, but this is just the beginning.” Kettle noted that contactless fare payment systems are already common in transit networks worldwide and will help the region better prepare for the influx of international visitors expected over the next several years.
Metrolink officials hope to expand the technology systemwide ahead of the 2028 Games.
Local transportation leaders say the pilot reflects a larger vision for how agencies can work together to create a more connected ecosystem. “Metrolink is one of the most valuable mobility resources we have in our region,” said SCAG Executive Director Kome Ajise. “We’ve positioned transit as the backbone of the region’s mobility system, and making transit more accessible and easier to use is fundamental to the future we see for Southern California.” Ajise added that projects like contactless payments help public transit compete with other modes of transportation, homing in on convenience and accessibility to encourage long-term ridership growth.
Traditional ticketing options, including the Metrolink Mobile App and station ticket machines, will remain available throughout the pilot period. Over the coming months, Metrolink will evaluate customer feedback and usage patterns to help shape the future of fare payment technology across the system. As the region prepares to welcome high-profile international events and embraces expansive population growth during the second half of the decade, initiatives like contactless payments represent common-sense progress toward making public transportation a better, more intuitive and viable choice for everyone.
OCTA Proposes 2026-27 Balanced Budget to Advance Transportation in Orange County
The Orange County Transportation Authority Board of Directors this month received its first comprehensive look at the agency’s proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget during a public workshop, reviewing a proposed balanced budget that reflects OCTA’s continued commitment to maintaining a safe, reliable and balanced transportation network for Orange County.
The proposed budget, totaling approximately $2 billion, advances key transportation initiatives while ensuring all services, programs and projects can be delivered to residents not only next year but well into the future.
The Board is expected to consider adoption of the final budget at a June 8 public hearing that will provide community members with an opportunity to share input before final board consideration and a vote on adopting the budget.
“OCTA has built a strong track record of being careful stewards of taxpayer dollars,” said OCTA Chair Jamey M. Federico. “Through prudent planning and disciplined decision-making, we are able to maintain a balanced and sustainable transportation system that meets the needs of our communities while also helping protect the environment.”
The annual budget continues to emphasize advancing transit initiatives, with more than half of the budget (approximately 52%) dedicated to transit such as OC Bus and OC Streetcar, regional rail and Measure M transit services.
Key budget themes include:
- A balanced budget with no unplanned use of reserves
- Growing sales tax revenues to support core programs
- Delivering Measure M as promised
- Maintaining safe, reliable OC Bus service for riders
- Aligning Metrolink service with demand to ensure long-term viability
- Continuing to meet express lanes commitments
- Prioritizing coastal rail resiliency and reliability
A History of Prudent Planning
The proposed budget reflects decades of fiscally sound leadership, with a focus on aligning expenditures with available revenues, maintaining healthy reserves, and ensuring that investments are consistent with voter-approved Measure M funding, the local half-cent sales tax to fund transportation.
That approach has proven especially critical during times of economic uncertainty: During the COVID-19 pandemic, OCTA temporarily reduced bus service to reflect lower ridership demand and made the difficult decision to forgo staff raises. Those actions allowed the agency to preserve essential services for those who depend on public transit while safeguarding long-term financial health.
OCTA’s disciplined approach also recognizes that key revenue sources, including sales tax measures such as Measure M, can fluctuate over time. Through careful planning and avoiding overcommitment during strong economic periods, the agency is better positioned to navigate any future uncertainties.
Working with Metrolink for Long-term Sustainability
OCTA continues to work collaboratively with regional partners to address broader transportation challenges, including the long-term sustainability of Metrolink regional rail service. OCTA has long been a committed partner in supporting Metrolink, which plays a vital role in connecting Orange County to the greater Southern California region. OCTA remains dedicated to ensuring the continued success of regional rail service.
At the same time, OCTA is applying the same measured and responsible approach to discussions around Metrolink’s financial future, emphasizing the importance of aligning service levels with ridership and available funding to ensure long-term sustainability.
Metrolink continues to face structural funding challenges driven by struggling post-pandemic ridership and rising operating costs. As part of the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget, OCTA is planning to contribute its share of funding to support continued rail operations, while working with Metrolink to identify long-term solutions that ensure the system remains financially sustainable.
For more information about the proposed budget and upcoming public hearing, visit www.octa.net.
First Diverging Diamond Interchange Opens in San Bernardino County
The San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) joined regional partners, local leaders, and community members to celebrate the completion of the new Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) at Interstate 215 and University Parkway in San Bernardino. This innovative solution is the first DDI in San Bernardino County and a significant milestone for mobility in the region.
Located at a major gateway to Cal State San Bernardino and rapidly growing north end neighborhoods, the interchange has long served some of the busiest traffic in the region. The new DDI configuration is designed to improve safety, streamline traffic movements, and help reduce congestion by eliminating traditional left turns across oncoming traffic. This innovative design supports SBCTA’s ongoing commitment to delivering smart, forward-thinking infrastructure that enhances the daily experience of residents, students, commuters, and visitors alike.
The project was made possible through strong collaboration among the City of San Bernardino, Caltrans, and Cal State University, San Bernardino, with key contributions from SEMA Construction, Kleinfelder Construction Services, and HDR, who played central roles in building, managing, and designing the interchange. SBCTA President Rick Denison also recognized SBCTA’s Director of Project Delivery, Kristi Harris, and her team for their leadership throughout the complex construction effort.
Funding for the interchange was supported by Measure I, San Bernardino County’s voter approved half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements. SBCTA expressed deep appreciation to county residents for their continued trust and investment, which makes projects like the University Parkway DDI possible and keeps the region moving forward.
The new interchange will serve the region for decades, providing improved mobility and supporting economic growth. The dedication ceremony highlighted what can be achieved when agencies, institutions, and residents work together toward a shared vision: a safer, more efficient transportation network for San Bernardino County.
Newly Opened Calexico Intermodal Transportation Center Delivers Regional Mobility Benefits
On May 11, regional and local leaders celebrated a ribbon cutting to officially open the Calexico Intermodal Transportation Center (ITC), a project that creates mobility, safety, and sustainability benefits in Imperial County.
Located in downtown Calexico, the Calexico ITC consolidates public and private transportation services into a centralized hub, supporting zero-emission transportation and strengthening connections for residents, businesses, and cross-border travelers.
SCAG contributed $1 million to the project through the Regional Early Action Planning Grant of 2021 (REAP 2.0) to support site acquisition. SCAG has partnered on the project for more than a decade, including funding a 2014 feasibility study with Caltrans, the Imperial County Transportation Commission, and the city of Calexico to identify and evaluate the project site.
The completion of the Calexico ITC highlights the impact of strategic collaboration and sustained investment, underscoring the importance of continued funding for programs like REAP 2.0, which funds a variety of efforts to increase housing production and connect housing and transportation.
To learn more about the ICTC ribbon cutting and the REAP 2.0 program, visit SCAG News.
OCBC Launches International Business Attraction Committee
Beginning in January, Orange County Business Council has worked to coalesce foreign-owned businesses and support operations around the goal of realizing increased investments into Orange County. Stemming from those efforts, OCBC has officially launched its International Business Attraction Committee.
The focus is centered on attracting, supporting and retaining foreign direct investment into the region. The committee promotes Orange County’s world-class business environment, fosters international partnerships and provides access to resources, networks and market opportunities that help global companies succeed.
The meetings have included updates on the development of ChooseOC.com, a website dedicated to this effort and a “soft-landing toolkit” for international businesses. More than 20 global companies and stakeholders attended the committee, with the intent of streamlining investment opportunities for other foreign businesses.
To learn more about the committee, contact OCBC’s International Business Attraction Advisor Jim Mayfield.