Did you know the NJTPA has an advisory group consisting of young adults? It's called UpNext North Jersey and we're seeking members between the ages of 21 and 30 who live in the 13-county NJTPA region.
The group is a great way to network, learn about transportation planning projects in the region and provide input. The NJTPA created the group as a pilot project based on research conducted by the Public Outreach and Engagement Team (POET) at Rutgers University’s Voorhees Transportation Center. The goal is to better engage young adults in the NJTPA's planning work and help raise awareness about transportation planning in our region.
“UpNext North Jersey is an opportunity for young professionals – in a space that’s designed for participation – to learn about transportation planning from the experts, but also connect with peers across the region, grow their networks, and to be involved in shaping the region’s transportation future,” said Cate Heady, a research project coordinator at POET. “Meanwhile, the NJTPA gains valuable insights from young adults about their interests and priorities, while also improving how to reach and communicate with this often under-represented group in transportation planning.”
Meetings and events are held several times a year; some are conducted in-person, and others are virtual. Past events have included visits to Waterloo Village, Paterson’s Great Falls, Port Newark, Jersey City, and, most recently, Newark’s Riverfront Park “Notch.”
Adam Iaccheo and Mark Serrano started out as UpNext North Jersey members; both now work for the NJTPA's Local Project Development team.
“I enjoy learning about infrastructure projects in our region and getting a behind-the-scenes look at things, including some of the field trips to transportation facilities that the group offers,” Iaccheo said of his experience with UpNext.
Serrano added, “UpNext is a great place to express your ideas about improving transportation in your community.”
The NJTPA conducts UpNext recruitment on a rolling basis. The group is always looking for civic-minded young adults interested in discussion and providing input about NJTPA programs, projects and all things transportation. Presentation and discussion topics have ranged from planning, land use, and freight/goods movement, to safety, sustainability, and emerging technologies.
Interested? Or know someone who might be? Fill out our brief online form or e-mail njtpa@njtpa.org. We look forward to hearing from you!