EVENTS
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Transportation Learning Series
The Equitable Transportation Fund (ETF) launched this learning series to build field cohesion, inform philanthropic investment, and explore systems-change strategies in transportation. Rooted in ETF's commitment to equity, climate resilience, and people-centered mobility, this virtual series engages funders, advocates, and field leaders in discussions on pressing and often siloed issues in transportation policy and infrastructure planning.
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This learning series aims to:
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Connect funders and advocates working at the intersection of transportation and related sectors such as housing, environmental justice, land use, workforce development, economic mobility, and climate adaptation.
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Foster shared understanding of systemic challenges and opportunities in transportation.
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Identify pathways for cross-sector collaboration and collective action.
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Lay the groundwork for coordinated advocacy leading into the 2025-2026 federal infrastructure reauthorization.
Each session spotlights a relevant topic and features diverse voices from across the field in a moderated discussion format.​​​
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Upcoming Sessions
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Session #2: Land Use, Housing, and Transportation
This session will focus on exploring the critical links between land use patterns, transportation emissions, and equity. We’ll spotlight cross-sector solutions and innovative models of collaboration—aiming to break down silos and reframe transportation as a shared priority across housing, climate, and community development.
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Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM CST / 1:00 PM EST (1-hour session)
Format: Brief presentations followed by an open discussion
Featured Speakers:
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Nina Idemudia, Center for Neighborhood Technology
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Lydia Lo, Urban Institute
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Jarrett Stoltzfuz, Arnold Ventures​
Session Recaps
Learning Series Session #1 Recap: Congestion Pricing
ETF kicked off its Transportation Learning Series on July 9 with a discussion on congestion pricing not just as a policy tool, but as a case study in winning broader climate and transportation fights.
Speakers Ben Furnas (Transportation Alternatives) and Nick Sifuentes (Summit Foundation) shared lessons from New York City’s decades-long push for congestion pricing. They highlighted how strong community organizing, clear messaging, and persistent advocacy helped overcome political challenges and deliver a major win for transit and climate goals.
Key reflections:
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Organizing Works: Community-driven campaigns built momentum for congestion pricing by centering transit improvements and fairness.
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People Want Transit: Voter support for transit investment remains high even where electrification efforts stall.
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Framing is Critical: Successful campaigns start from shared public priorities like cost savings, traffic reduction, and cleaner air.
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Durable Wins Matter: Winning the policy fight is just the beginning thoughtful implementation is key to lasting success.
The session framed congestion pricing as a model for advancing other climate policies in a challenging political environment.
Watch the recorded session below and download the session slides here.
