For immediate release:
September 18, 2023
Media inquires:
Tim Hunt
651-242-4959
timh@reconnectrondo.com
Saint Paul, Minn — The first-ever convening of communities divided by the federal highway system will happen in St. Paul, MN from October 12-14. The Reconnecting Communities Summit will gather leaders from across the nation and is part of a national restorative movement that will help advance policy and investment in revitalizing communities of color experiencing residual negative impacts of transportation policy.
“The story of Rondo is the story of communities across the country. Highway projects have devasted thousands of households. The Reconnecting Communities Summit is an opportunity to share, learn and plan collective efforts to overcome the negative impacts of the Federal Highway Act of 1956.”, said Keith Baker, Executive Director of Reconnect Rondo.
Sponsored by the AASHTO Center for Environmental Excellence (CEE) in partnership with the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO), ReConnect Rondo will host the event that will feature several opportunities, including presentations by national and local transportation industry leaders and workshops discussing vital issues such as project fund development, transportation equity and environmental impact.
“AASHTO is committed to improving quality of life by working toward a transportation system that serves the needs of every community safely, equitably, sustainably, and efficiently.”, said Joshua Rodriguez, Director for the AASHTO Center for Environmental Excellence (CEE)
April Rai, President and CEO of COMTO, says, “We are proud to support this one-of-a-kind gathering initiated by communities, for communities. The first step in repairing harm done by past transportation policies is to ensure all voices are represented in the decision-making process as these projects take shape. COTMO and our 38 chapters are committed to supporting this initial summit and the ongoing community of practice to ensure all stakeholders stay engaged and see these projects come to fruition.”
A press conference will be held as a part of the conference on October 12th at 4pm to announce the forming of a consortium dedicated to advancing policy and education to help reconnect communities impacted by transportation policy.
Location details
Intercontinental Hotel, Saint Paul
11 E Kellogg Blvd
St Paul, MN 55101
About ReConnect Rondo
ReConnect Rondo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring equity and opportunity in Rondo by leading a united effort in pursuit of one common goal — a revitalized African-American cultural enterprise districted connected by a community land bridge. For more information, go to www.reconnectrondo.com
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