Colin Parent on ‘The Powerless Brokers’ and the Politics of Transit Change

In this episode of METROspectives, METRO’s Executive EditorAlex Roman sits down with Colin Parent, Executive Director and General Counsel at Circulate San Diego, to discuss his recent report, “The Powerless Brokers,” and what it reveals about how decisions get made — and too often stalled — in public transit in California, as well as the rest of the US.

With a background spanning law, public policy, and advocacy,Parent brings a nuanced perspective on what it takes to make transit projects happen — and why accountability, mentorship, and leadership development are essential to the future of urban mobility.

Topics include:

· The genesis of ‘The Powerless Brokers’ and howhis report came about.

· Systemic issues with permitting despite votersupport for public transit.

· Possible changes that could help speed theprocess and eliminate current issues.

· How these issues apply to other regions, as wellas Federal funding.

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