By: Shelley Wynne, WTS-DC Chapter Vice President

On Tuesday, April 23, 2024, WTS-DC held a panel discussion on recent transportation milestones and current hot topics in Northern Virginia. The discussion featured Monica Backmon, Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA) and Kate Mattice, Executive Director of the Northern Virginia Transit Commission (NVTC). The panel was moderated by Sophie Guiny, WTS-DC Chapter President and Managing Principal at InfraStrategies, and the event was hosted by NVTA at their Vienna office.

The meeting kicked off with opening remarks from Sophie Guiny where she welcomed attendees and gave a brief overview of WTS-DC as well as introductions of the panelists. Monica Backmon stated that NVTA’s primary responsibilities include developing and updating the long-range transportation plan for Northern Virginia, prioritizing and funding projects across all modes of transportation, and giving priority to projects that provide congestion relief in relation to costs. Kate Mattice shared the 60-year history of NVTC enabling transit in Northern Virginia starting with its establishment in 1964 to help realize the dream of rapid transit in Northern Virginia. NVTC is celebrating this year by hosting a transit innovation summit at George Mason University on June 14th.

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Sophie Guiny then asked Monica Backmon and Kate Mattice what they believe to be the current pressing transportation issues in our region. Monica Backmon stated transportation issues are ever-changing, but particularly she believes more equitable travel options across the region are needed. Kate Mattice stated that we need to collectively develop a vision for moving people in our region with conscious decisions on how we work together to develop more long-term sustainable solutions for funding this vision. 

Sophie Guiny asked Monica Backmon and Kate Mattice to elaborate on what they believe to be the biggest changes in Northern Virginia that affect transportation. Monica Backmon stated that traditional peak periods have shifted in the last few years and investments in transportation has grown significantly in the Commonwealth. Kate Mattice noted a dynamic shift in people working from home has affected out commuter-based transit network where now transportation planners are just starting to understand how our transportation network can adapt. 

Next, Sophie Guiny asked Monica Backmon and Kate Mattice about how NVTA and NVTC are providing equitable outcomes. Monica Backmon stated that the core values of NVTA are equity, safety, and sustainability, and that project sponsors must address these core values when submitting for applications for funding consideration. Kate Mattice stated that equity is at the heart of NVTC mission as it strives to see a network of transit to provide equitable outcomes for people.  Currently, NVTC is studying a regional overlay of our transit networks, specifically bus routes, and how they are can work together. NVTC also focuses on policy studies that can help local elected officials make informed decisions on everything from fare policies to electrification. 

In closing, Sophie Guiny asked Monica Backmon and Kate Mattice what they want their legacy to be as leaders of their respective reorganizations. Monica Backmon stated that she is empowered and inspired by her team at NVTA as each member of her team brings ideas and creativity. Kate Mattice wants her legacy to be leaving a strong organizational culture at NVTC that can continue to allow its professionals to thrive and provide the best products for the region.

The event concluded with a Q&A session from the audience based on the personal experiences of the panelists and advice for transportation professionals.

The WTS-DC Chapter would like to thank our panelists, Monica Backmon and Kate Mattice, as well as NVTA for hosting this event!