Jeremy Bloom's activity stream
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Jeremy Bloom published Join Us for an Evening with Black Public Joy Author Jay Pitter in Calendar 2026-10-09 11:54:26 -0700
Join Us for an Evening with Black Public Joy Author Jay Pitter
Circulate Planning & Policy is excited to partner with UC San Diego for an intimate evening with award-winning public space practitioner, researcher, and authorJay Pitter, celebrating the release of her latest book, Black Public Joy.
Black Public Joy explores the histories, traditions, and contemporary expressions of Black joy in public spaces. Through stories of community, culture, and design, Pitter shifts the conversation from harm toward collective flourishing, highlighting the importance of public spaces where everyone can experience joy, dignity, and belonging.
The book has already received national recognition, including a feature on the Forbes Summer Reading List and a spot on the 2026 Toronto Book Awards longlist.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | 5–7 PM
UC San Diego BookstoreJoin us for an engaging evening featuring:
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A conversation with Jay Pitter
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Audience Q&A
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Book signing
Don't miss this opportunity to explore how public spaces can foster connection, belonging, and joy in our communities.
WhenOctober 21, 2026 at 5:00pm1 rsvpWhereUC San Diego Bookstore
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Momentum Award After Party
We’re adding something new to this year’s Momentum Awards, and we think you’re going to like it.
After we celebrate this year’s Momentum Award winners, the party is heading to the rooftop at NOVA SD from 9–11 PM!
Presented by Waymo, we’ll keep the night going with an open bar, late-night bites, music, rooftop views, and a special After Party swag bag. Already coming to the Momentum Awards? You’re in!
Already have your Momentum Awards ticket? You’re in!
All Momentum Awards ticket holders and guests attending through a Circulate corporate membership are automatically on the list for the After Party. No additional RSVP is needed.
Not attending yet? What are you waiting for?
Grab your Momentum Awards ticket and join us for the whole night, from celebrating San Diego’s leaders in safe streets, public transit, and sustainable growth to raising a glass together on the rooftop.
And there’s one more perk: the first 10 people to purchase a Momentum Awards ticket will receive an invite code for immediate access to Waymo rides.
2026 Momentum Awards
Friday, October 23
NOVA SD
Doors Open: 5:30 PM
Awards Program: 6:30–7:30 PM
Rooftop After Party: 9:00–11:00 PMA huge thank you to Waymo for helping us take the Momentum Awards to the rooftop, and to all of Circulate’s corporate members and sponsors whose support makes our work possible.
Open Bar. Late-Night Bites. Rooftop. Enough Said.We’ll see you at NOVA!
WhenOctober 23, 2026 at 6:00pmWhereNova Rooftop
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PRESS RELEASE - Circulate Planning & Policy to Honor HCD Director Gustavo Velasquez, MTS CEO Sharon Cooney, and Councilmember Stephen Whitburn with 2026 Walk the Walk Award
OR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2026
Contact:Jeremy Bloom, Chief Operating Officer
619-841-2258 |[email protected]
Circulate Planning & Policy to Honor HCD Director Gustavo Velasquez, MTS CEO Sharon Cooney, and Councilmember Stephen Whitburn with 2026 Walk the Walk Award
SAN DIEGO (September 24, 2026) – Circulate Planning & Policy announced today that Gustavo Velasquez, Director of the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD); Sharon Cooney, CEO of the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS); and San Diego City Councilmember Stephen Whitburn will each receive the organization's 2026 Walk the Walk Award, recognizing leaders whose work is making California and the San Diego region safer, more sustainable, and more connected.
The honorees will be celebrated on Friday, October 23, at the 2026 Momentum Awards, held at NovaSD in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter. The Momentum Awards is Circulate's signature annual event honoring the people, projects, and organizations advancing safe streets, public transit, and sustainable growth.
"This year's Walk the Walk honorees represent exactly the kind of leadership our state and region needs: people who aren't just setting policy, but following through on it. Gustavo, Sharon, and Stephen have each used their positions to move real, measurable progress on housing and mobility, and we're proud to recognize them," said Colin Parent, CEO of Circulate Planning & Policy.
Since Governor Newsom appointed him in 2020, Gustavo Velasquez has led California's housing policy department at a moment of extraordinary need, driving Homekey funding that has housed thousands of Californians experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and holding jurisdictions accountable under the state's Housing Accountability Act. He brought that same fight for access and opportunity from his prior role leading fair housing efforts at HUD.
Sharon Cooney has led MTS since 2020, steering one of the nation's top-performing transit agencies through its most consequential stretch, launching service on the Mid-Coast Trolley Extension and earning APTA's Outstanding Public Transportation System Award along the way. As Chair of the California Transit Association, she has helped protect transit funding well beyond San Diego's borders.
Councilmember Stephen Whitburn has represented District 3 on the San Diego City Council since 2020, chairing both the MTS Board and the City's Active Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, a rare dual vantage point he has used to move safer streets, stronger transit, and thousands of new homes forward at once.
In addition to the Walk the Walk honorees, the 2026 Momentum Awards will recognize nominees across seven juried categories: Safe Streets, Public Transit, Planning, Transit Oriented Development, Housing Innovation, Advocate, and Public Servant. The full list of nominees is available at www.circulatesd.org/awards2026.
Event Details:
Friday, October 23, 2026
NovaSD, Gaslamp Quarter, San DiegoTickets and sponsorship information: www.circulatesd.org/awards2026
About Circulate Planning & Policy
Circulate Planning & Policy is a nonprofit think tank based in San Diego, dedicated to advancing mobility and making the region a better place to move, work, learn, and play. Our work focuses on creating great mobility choices, more walkable and bikeable neighborhoods, and land uses that promote sustainable growth. For more information, visit www.circulatesd.org.###
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Jeremy Bloom published PRESS RELEASE - Nominees Announced for Circulate Planning & Policy’s 2026 Momentum Awards in Press Room 2026-09-23 14:51:26 -0700
PRESS RELEASE - Nominees Announced for Circulate Planning & Policy’s 2026 Momentum Awards
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 10, 2026
Contact: Jeremy Bloom, Chief Operating Officer
619-841-2258 | [email protected]
Nominees Announced for Circulate Planning & Policy’s 2026 Momentum Awards
SAN DIEGO (September 10, 2026) – Circulate Planning & Policy is proud to announce the nominees for the 2026 Momentum Awards, the region’s premier celebration of leadership in safe streets, public transit, and sustainable growth.
Earlier this year, Circulate changed its name from “Circulate San Diego” to “Circulate Planning & Policy.” Along with the new name, this year’s Momentum Awards feature updated categories to reflects where the region’s momentum is building fastest.
Circulate is proud to spotlight the Housing Innovation Award, recognizing projects that use policy tools creatively to produce more homes, and to elevate the Planning Award, honoring the plans that lay the groundwork for walkable, transit-connected communities. Alongside these categories, this year’s Advocate and Public Servant Awards shine a light on the community advocates and the unsung heroes inside public agencies whose persistence, coalition-building, and behind-the-scenes leadership move real projects across the finish line.“Our favorite part of the year is when we get to recognize those who are making our region a better place to live, work, and move around,” said Colin Parent, CEO and General Counsel of Circulate Planning & Policy. “This year we're taking that celebration to a new level at Nova. Club Circulate is going to be our biggest Momentum Awards yet."
For over 27 years, Circulate Planning & Policy has worked alongside local governments, community groups, and the private sector to push for safer streets, better transit, and more sustainable growth. The Momentum Awards celebrate the people and projects that are turning those goals into reality across the region.
The 2026 Momentum Awards will also debut a new home this year: Nova in Downtown San Diego. Save the date for October 23rd at 5:30 p.m., and get ready to celebrate at Club Circulate, a night of music, community, and momentum honoring the people and projects moving San Diego forward. Registration and event details are available at www.circulatesd.org/awards2026.
The event invitation and photos from past Momentum Awards are attached oronline.
2026 MOMENTUM AWARD NOMINEES
Safe Streets Award
- Oceanside Inland Rail Trail (OIRT) Feasibility Study — City of Oceanside, Caltrans, Kimley-Horn
- Bike Anywhere Day — SANDAG
- Comprehensive Speed Management Plan — City of San Diego, LLG Engineers & Planners, Kittelson & Associates, Evari GIS Consulting
- Multimodal Team — City of San Diego
- Building Safe Routes to School — San Diego Unified School District
Public Transit Award
- Wakeland Housing Mobility Access Program — Wakeland Housing, Price Philanthropies
- Mid-City GO! — City Heights Community Development Corporation and North Park Main Street
- Finish the Rapid 215 — BikeSD, RideSD, SD350, and DSA SD
Planning Award
- SDSU on the Move, Transforming Transportation for a Growing Campus (TDM Plan) — San Diego State University, Feer & Peers
- Moments — NewSchool of Architecture & Design
- A Living Village for Learning — NewSchool of Architecture & Design
- Thrive — NewSchool of Architecture & Design
- College Area Community Plan Update — City of San Diego
- San Diego Bike Share — San Diego Bike Share Alliance, San Diego County Bicycle Coalition, SDSU, Circulate Planning and Policy
Transit Oriented Development Award
- SkyLINE — Affirmed Housing, San Diego MTS
- Ridge Walk North Living and Learning Neighborhood — UC San Diego
- Sprawl to Stack: Rethinking of Suburban Land Use Through Densification — NewSchool of Architecture & Design
- Kettner Crossing — BRIDGE Housing Corporation, AVRP Studios, R.D. Olson
Housing Innovation Award
- San Diego Shared Housing Collaborative — Townspeople
- Jacaranda on 9th — Community HousingWorks, Stephen Dalton Architects, Highland PM LLC, Pasco Laret Suiter & Associates (PLSA)
- San Diego Community College District Affordable Housing Project, City College — San Diego Community College District, Developer: The Michaels Organization
- Black Oak Hall and Kwíila Dining Project — Cal State San Marcos Corporation, CSUSM Facilities Development & Management, Office of Facility Services and Office of Planning, Design and Construction, Division of Student Affairs
- Evolve Student Housing — SDSU, Swinerton
Advocate Award
- Amelia Broadnax — GLM House Inc
- Harry Bubbins — BikeSD/Respect Bird Rock
- Madison Cranford — BikeSD
- Zack Defazio-Farrell — YIMBY Democrats of San Diego County
- Adam Deutsch — Riding Bikes in San Diego (YouTube channel)
- Aaron Eckhouse — California YIMBY
- Ian Hembree — San Diego County Bicycle Coalition
- Juliana Kapovich — Families for Safe Streets
- E. Chloé Lauer — San Diego County Bicycle Coalition
- Benjamin Nicholls — Hillcrest Business Association
- Jillian Quint — San Diego River Park Foundation
- Adriana Rizzo — Californians for Electric Rail
- Martha Wudka — UC Bike Bus
Public Servant Award
- Brittany Bailey — City of San Diego Mayor's Office
- Nicholas Buenviaje — Caltrans
- Hillary Ego — City of La Mesa
- Ariel Kroll — San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS)
- Jordan Latchford — Office of City Councilmember Stephen Whitburn
- Maya Rosas — Office of Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera, Council District 9
- Hannah Stern — San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG)
- Coby Tomlins — City of San Diego - City Planning Department
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PRESS RELEASE: Midway Rising Specific Plan Earns Circulate Mobility Plan Certification, Setting the Stage for a Walkable New Village Anchored by Affordable Homes
September 14, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jeremy Bloom, Chief Operating Officer
619-841-2258 | [email protected]Midway Rising Specific Plan Earns Circulate Mobility Plan Certification,
Setting the Stage for a Walkable New Village Anchored by Affordable HomesCirculate Planning & Policy, whose mission is to create excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods, today announced that the Midway Rising Specific Plan has earned the Circulate Mobility Plan Certification. The plan will replace an aging, auto-oriented arena and parking site with a new mixed-use village of up to 4,254 homes, including 2,000 deed-restricted affordable homes, marking one of the largest affordable housing commitments to move through the certification program and a catalyst for walkable redevelopment throughout the Midway community.
Of the affordable units, 200 will be permanent supportive housing linked to health, mental health, employment, and other services, with no limit on length of stay. The plan also weaves in over 14.5 acres of new parks and public space, along with a new 16,000-seat multi-purpose entertainment center, giving future residents and neighbors alike places to gather that don't require a car to reach.
Midway Rising is also accessible by excellent transit options. The plan relocates and upgrades an existing bus stop into a Rapid BRT station along Sports Arena Boulevard, supports the planned extension of Rapid Bus Route 10, and adds a new third bus stop at Sports Arena Boulevard and Kemper Street. The site sits within a mile of the Old Town Transit Center, and a daily commercial shuttle plus an event-day shuttle will connect residents and visitors to Old Town and Mission Bay without adding cars to the road. A network of Class I multi-use paths and Class IV cycle tracks, including a 33-foot promenade along the project frontage, ties the site together for people walking and biking.
The Circulate Mobility Plan Certification is awarded by an independent volunteer committee with expertise in development, active transportation, and neighborhood design. The panel independently evaluates each proposal on the basis of objective application criteria, including transit access, vehicle miles traveled, mixed-use opportunities, density and smart growth techniques, and community character.
The Circulate Mobility Plan Certification panel evaluated the Midway Rising Specific Plan and determined that it meets Circulate's objective criteria for a sustainable growth project in the San Diego region. There are several highlights the panel felt particularly compelling.
Colin Parent, CEO and General Counsel at Circulate Planning & Policy, said "Midway Rising shows what's possible when a community reimagines an underused site: thousands of new affordable homes, real transit connections, and public space, all in one plan. This is exactly the kind of transformative project our certification was built to recognize."
Jeff Meyer, spokesperson for Midway Rising, said “Midway Rising is the culmination of years of hard work led by the Midway-Pacific Highway Community Planning Group, which envisioned a pedestrian, transit-oriented mixed-use Sports Arena Community Village to create a variety of new housing opportunities and help revitalize the Midway neighborhood.”
About the Circulate Mobility Certification
Formed in 2012, the Circulate Mobility Certification provides recognition and support for development proposals that demonstrate a commitment to creating, preserving, and enhancing sustainable communities that provide mobility choices. Applications are reviewed by a volunteer committee with expertise in development, active transportation, and neighborhood design, and each project is independently evaluated using clear, objective criteria. For more information, go to http://www.circulatesd.org/certified.
About Circulate Planning & Policy
Circulate Planning & Policy is a nonprofit think tank based in San Diego, dedicated to advancing mobility and making the region a better place to move, work, learn, and play. Our work focuses on creating great mobility choices, more walkable and bikeable neighborhoods, and land uses that promote sustainable growth. For more information, visit http://www.circulatesd.org.
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Jeremy Bloom published PRESS RELEASE: Ascencia Apartments Earns Circulate Streamlined Mobility Certification in Press Room 2026-08-12 16:59:25 -0700
PRESS RELEASE: Ascencia Apartments Earns Circulate Streamlined Mobility Certification
August 12, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jeremy Bloom, Chief Operating Officer
619-841-2258 | [email protected]Ascencia Apartments Earns Circulate Streamlined Mobility Certification
Circulate Planning & Policy, whose mission is to create excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods, today announced that Ascencia Apartments, a 180-unit affordable housing development owned by nonprofit developer, MAAC, in Downtown Escondido, has earned the Circulate Streamlined Mobility Certification.
Ascencia Apartments is accessible by excellent transit options. It is located near the NCTD Breeze Rapid Route 350 and approximately one-half mile from the SPRINTER station, providing regional transit connectivity throughout North San Diego County. In addition, the project promotes multiple modes of mobility for residents by providing secure bicycle parking spaces designed to accommodate resident use and encourage bicycle commuting for daily trips.
Ascencia Apartments will bring 180 new homes serving low-income households with long-term affordability protections. The project is located within Downtown Escondido's Southern Gateway District, transforming an underutilized infill site into a high-quality affordable housing community. Residents will have proximity to employment centers, retail and commercial services, government offices, educational facilities, healthcare providers, community resources, and public transportation. The development also includes community gathering spaces, open-air circulation elements, roof decks, playground areas, community rooms, resident support spaces, and multiple common open-space areas.
The Circulate Mobility Certification is awarded by an independent volunteer committee with expertise in the areas of development, active transportation, and neighborhood design. The panel independently evaluates each proposal on the basis of objective application criteria.
The Circulate Mobility Certification panel evaluated Ascencia Apartments and determined that it meets Circulate's objective criteria for a sustainable growth project in the San Diego region. There are several highlights the panel felt particularly compelling.
Colin Parent, CEO and General Counsel at Circulate Planning & Policy, said "Circulate is proud to support projects like Ascencia Apartments, which will build much needed housing in Escondido with access to jobs, retail, and other resources."
"At MAAC, we believe that stable, affordable housing is a foundation for family well-being and economic mobility," said Adolfo Ventura, Interim President & CEO of MAAC. "Ascencia Apartments reflects our commitment to creating communities where individuals and families have access to safe, quality housing, reliable transportation, employment opportunities, and essential services. This certification is a testament to the vision and dedication of MAAC's Real Estate Development team and our partners, who are helping ensure residents can thrive in a connected, opportunity-rich neighborhood."
About the Circulate Mobility Certification
Formed in 2012, the Circulate Mobility Certification provides recognition and support for development proposals that demonstrate a commitment to creating, preserving, and enhancing sustainable communities that provide mobility choices. Applications are reviewed by a volunteer committee with expertise in development, active transportation, and neighborhood design, and each project is independently evaluated using clear, objective criteria. For more information, go to http://www.circulatesd.org/certified.
About Circulate Planning & Policy
Circulate Planning & Policy is a nonprofit think tank based in San Diego, dedicated to advancing mobility and making the region a better place to move, work, learn, and play. Our work focuses on creating great mobility choices, more walkable and bikeable neighborhoods, and land uses that promote sustainable growth. For more information, visit http://www.circulatesd.org.
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JOIN US FOR THE 2026 MOMENTUM AWARDS: CLUB CIRCULATE
JOIN US FOR THE 2026 MOMENTUM AWARDS: CLUB CIRCULATE
Circulate Planning & Policy's Momentum Awards recognize the people and projects in the San Diego region that are creating excellent mobility choices, vibrant, healthy neighborhoods.
San Diego is on the move, and every year, the Momentum Awards are our chance to celebrate the people, projects, and organizations leading the way. This year, we're giving our biggest night a whole new atmosphere: Club Circulate. Think dance floor energy, better lighting, and a DJ, the same awards you look forward to, with a whole lot more style. From bold housing solutions to transformative transit investments to the advocates who make it all happen, the Momentum Awards shine a spotlight on the visionaries shaping a more connected and livable region.
The 2026 Momentum Awards introduce new award categories, including the Housing Innovation Award and the Public Servant Award, expanding our recognition of the full spectrum of leaders driving safe streets, public transit, and sustainable growth.
Join Circulate Planning & Policy for an unforgettable night of cocktails, community, and celebration on the dance floor, honoring the innovators and champions who are turning big ideas into real change across our region.
Event Details
Friday, October 23, 2026 | 5:30 PM | Nova, Downtown San DiegoIndividual Tickets
Individual Tickets — $120 General admission includes a pre-event cocktail hour with heavy hors d'oeuvres and open bar, awards ceremony, and post-ceremony dessert and open bar until 9:30 pm.2026 Nominees:
The Momentum Awards will celebrate the region’s leadership in safe streets, transit, and sustainable growth through our juried awards. This year’s 2026 Nominees!
Stay tuned for this year’s Walk The Walk Awardees.
Become a Corporate Membership and Event Sponsor
Sponsorships are available for companies and organizations that want to support our work and secure visibility at the event. Check out all the Momentum Awards Sponsorship Benefits or contact Jeremy Bloom, Chief Operating and Development Officer, at [email protected].Momentum Awards Sponsorship BenefitsWhenOctober 23, 2026 at 5:30pm$120.00 USD ·Where -
Jeremy Bloom published PRESS RELEASE - Circulate San Diego Rebrands as Circulate Planning & Policy, Reflecting Expanded Reach Across California in Press Room 2026-03-17 08:49:15 -0700
PRESS RELEASE - Circulate San Diego Rebrands as Circulate Planning & Policy, Reflecting Expanded Reach Across California
SAN DIEGO, CA — Circulate San Diego, a leading nonprofit dedicated to creating excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods, today announced it is changing its name to Circulate Planning & Policy. The new name takes effect immediately and reflects the organization’s growing influence beyond San Diego County, including impactful planning efforts across Southern California and successful sponsorship of statewide legislation in Sacramento.
Circulate’s roots trace back to the founding of WalkSanDiego in 1999. The organization has more than 27 years of experience advancing transportation, housing, and land use policy in the San Diego region. Formed in 2014 through the merger of WalkSanDiego and Move San Diego, Circulate has been at the forefront of creating livable, connected communities. In recent years, its work has expanded significantly — shaping policy and planning conversations across Southern California and playing a growing role to advance housing and transportation legislation through the California State Legislature.
The rebrand to Circulate Planning & Policy acknowledges this evolution while reaffirming the organization’s commitment to promoting public transit, safe streets, and sustainable growth.
“Our work has never been limited to a single city or county. We are advancing the policies and planning strategies that help regions solve complex mobility and land use challenges. The name Circulate Planning & Policy better reflects the scope and depth of that work.”
— Colin Parent, CEO and General Counsel, Circulate Planning & Policy“The Circulate Board of Directors is excited to celebrate this new milestone as we continue to grow our organization and our influence.”
— Melanie Cohn, Chair of the Board of Directors, Circulate Planning & Policy
The organization’s core programs, staff, leadership, and commitment to its mission and values remain unchanged. Circulate Planning & Policy will continue operating from San Diego while expanding its reach and partnerships throughout the region and state.About Circulate Planning & Policy
Circulate Planning & Policy is a nonprofit think tank whose mission is to create excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods. Circulate promotes public transit, safe streets, and sustainable growth. Circulate has successfully led campaigns to transform empty parking lots into affordable homes, to implement free transfers for transit riders, and for local jurisdictions to adopt Vision Zero to end traffic fatalities and serious injuries.
Circulate also provides grant-funded and fee-for service transportation planning work to school districts and local jurisdictions. Their team has a specialty in creative community engagement, with a focus on schools, active transportation, and public transport.For more information, visit www.circulatesd.org.
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Jeremy Bloom published Join Circulate and Lock In Your 2026 Corporate Membership and Sponsorships in Blog Posts 2025-11-06 10:07:12 -0800
Join Circulate and Lock In Your 2026 Corporate Membership and Sponsorships
Corporate Members are the driving force behind Circulate San Diego’s work to champion safe streets, better transit, and smarter land use. Your support helps make our region safer, more connected, and more sustainable.
For 25 years, Circulate has been San Diego’s go-to organization for practical, forward-thinking land use and transportation policy. With your continued partnership, we can achieve even more in 2026.
Why Renew (or Join) Now
Join or renew your 2026 Corporate Membership by December 31 and save 10% while securing a full year of benefits, visibility, and impact.
We’re excited to share new benefits for 2026, including:
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Expanded Committee Access: Participate in more Circulate Committees to help shape advocacy, planning, and events.
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Mobility Certification Fee Waivers: Eligible projects receive waived fees for Circulate’s trusted Mobility Certification program.
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Event Sponsorship Opportunities: Secure early access to sponsorships for Membership Mixers, the Advisory Circle Dinner, and the Momentum Awards—all set for 2026.
Core Membership Benefits
Corporate Members gain exclusive opportunities to engage, connect, and lead:
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Direct Engagement: Participate in Circulate’s advocacy and policy priorities alongside regional decision-makers.
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Visibility: Be featured across Circulate’s website, newsletters, and social media—reaching over 10,000 local advocates and professionals.
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Recognition: Receive acknowledgment and tickets at Circulate’s annual Momentum Awards.
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Networking: Join a coalition of corporate, nonprofit, and government partners committed to advancing San Diego’s future.
See What’s New for 2026
Want all the details about this year’s benefits and opportunities?
Check out our updated FAQ for a full breakdown of membership levels, discounts, and perks.View the 2026 Corporate Membership FAQ
Looking Ahead
In 2026, Circulate will continue advancing policies that build safer streets, expand housing near transit, and make it easier for San Diegans to get around without a car.
Your membership ensures your organization is part of that progress—informing our advocacy, gaining visibility in key regional conversations, and connecting with San Diego’s most forward-thinking leaders in transportation and land use.
Lock in your membership and 10% early renewal discount before December 31.
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Jeremy Bloom published PRESS RELEASE - Circulate San Diego Announces 2025 Momentum Award Winners in Press Room 2025-10-27 14:03:50 -0700
PRESS RELEASE - Circulate San Diego Announces 2025 Momentum Award Winners
PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jeremy Bloom
(619) 841-2258
[email protected]Circulate San Diego Announces 2025 Momentum Award Winners
San Diego, October 27, 2025 — Circulate San Diego, a nonprofit organization who’s mission is to create excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods, celebrated the winners of its 2025 Momentum Awards at the Quartyard in Downtown San Diego. The annual event brought together more than 200 community leaders, including elected officials, representatives from SANDAG and MTS, and partners from the transportation, housing, and land use sectors.
Circulate San Diego CEO Colin Parent reflected on the evening, saying, “From major housing projects to young people advocating for change, the Momentum Awards celebrate the many ways people are improving our region. This year’s honorees—agencies, community groups, and individual leaders alike—show how collective effort and shared values can create real progress for San Diego.”
The event celebrated eight award categories, including seven juried Momentum Awards selected by a panel of regional leader, and the Walk the Walk Award, recognizing leaders who champion sustainable transportation and progressive land use. The juried awards honor projects and individuals that have made a measurable impact on mobility, safety, housing, and environmental sustainability throughout the San Diego region.
This year’s Walk the Walk honorees included City of San Diego Councilmember Vivian Moreno, Climate Action Campaign Executive Director Nicole Capretz, and County of San Diego Senior Planner, Hugo Salgado for their leadership on policies improving safety and livability across California and San Diego.
Circulate San Diego was proud to celebrate so many transformative projects and advocates helping to shape a more connected, sustainable region.
All award winners are listed below. Photos from the event are below.
PDF Version of this Press Release
Check out all the event photos
2025 Momentum Award Winners
Safe Streets and Vision Zero Award
Winner: County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation – Lakeside Teen Center
The County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation’s Lakeside Teen Center creates a safe, positive, and engaging space for youth at Lindo Lake County Park. Through fitness, art, and leadership programs, the Center helps young people build confidence and community connection. Its Bike Rodeos teach safe riding skills, encourage active transportation, and provide teens with free bikes, scooters, and helmets. The Center also leads the Back 2 School Jam, distributing backpacks and safety resources to local families. By fostering safety, creativity, and belonging, the Lakeside Teen Center continues to make a lasting difference for Lakeside youth and their families.Public Transit Connectivity Award
Winner: Flagship Cruises & Events – Zero Emission Sustainable Transportation (ZEST) Project
The Zero Emission Sustainable Transportation (ZEST) Project, led by Flagship Cruises & Events, is transforming how San Diegans travel across the bay. Supported by the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District, the Port of San Diego, Aurora Marine Design, and Momentum, ZEST is launching the nation’s first fully battery-electric passenger ferries. This collaborative project will eliminate millions of vehicle miles traveled and improve air quality for waterfront communities. By integrating innovation, public-private partnership, and environmental stewardship, ZEST sets a new standard for sustainable transportation in coastal cities.
Innovation Award
Winners #1: San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) – PRONTO Contactless Payment Project
The PRONTO Contactless Payment Project, led by MTS in collaboration with the North County Transit District (NCTD), INIT Innovations in Transportation, Inc., and Cal-ITP, has revolutionized how San Diegans pay for transit. Riders can now simply tap a credit card, smartphone, or smartwatch to board—no app, cash, or fare card required. Since its 2024 launch, PRONTO has processed more than 1.3 million contactless transactions, making MTS and NCTD the first transit agencies in California to reach that milestone.Winner #2: UC San Diego Transportation Services and Hayden AI – Automated Bike Lane, Bus Stop, and Bus Lane Enforcement Pilot
The UC San Diego Transportation Services team, in partnership with Hayden AI, became the first university in the nation to pilot AI-powered, bus-mounted cameras to detect illegal parking in bike lanes and bus zones. During a 59-day test, the system recorded more than 1,100 violations—nearly 90 percent blocking bike lanes—providing data that’s now shaping safer, smarter street design. Both projects demonstrate how technology can improve accessibility, safety, and sustainability in public transportation.
Public Voice Award
Winners: Lauren Hepler and Robert Lewis, CalMatters – License to Kill
The investigative series License to Kill by CalMatters reporters Lauren Hepler and Robert Lewis exposed how gaps in California’s traffic enforcement and DMV reporting systems allow dangerous drivers to remain on the road—often with fatal consequences. Through meticulous reporting and storytelling, they revealed how weak oversight and outdated procedures lead to preventable crashes. Their work prompted renewed calls for accountability and reform, amplifying the voices of victims’ families and strengthening California’s commitment to safer streets.
Mid-Coast Award
Winners #1: Clairemont Transit Corridor Beautification
The Clairemont Transit Corridor Beautification Project, led by the Clairemont Town Council Foundation with support from San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), ArtReach San Diego, and local artists, has transformed utility boxes and public spaces along Morena Boulevard, Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, and Clairemont Drive into colorful works of art celebrating community identity and nature. The project expanded in 2024–25 with a 48-foot mural beside the Clairemont Drive Trolley Station, designed with community input to greet transit riders with a vibrant gateway into the neighborhood.
Winner #2: John Haggerty
John Haggerty, former Director of Rail at SANDAG, is also honored for his leadership in delivering the Mid-Coast Trolley Extension—one of San Diego’s most transformative infrastructure projects. Completed on time and under budget, the extension remains a national model of efficient, community-driven project delivery. Haggerty’s vision and collaborative leadership continue to inspire transit development across the region.
Sustainable Growth Award
Winners: City of San Marcos and Sea Breeze Properties – University District Specific Plan (North City)
The University District Specific Plan, known as North City, exemplifies sustainable urban growth through a partnership between the City of San Marcos and Sea Breeze Properties. The 205-acre district connects housing, jobs, shops, and education in a walkable, transit-oriented environment anchored by California State University San Marcos and the SPRINTER rail line. With affordable housing, active-transportation infrastructure, and vibrant public spaces, North City has transformed a suburban area into a thriving urban core—showing how inland North County can grow equitably and sustainably.
Advocate Award
Winner: Kesav “KC” Gupta – SanDiego350 and People’s Platform of San Diego
Kesav “KC” Gupta, Executive Director of the People’s Platform of San Diego and Transportation Lead at SanDiego350, is honored for his leadership in advancing transit justice, climate action, and equitable mobility. KC mobilized youth and community advocates to redirect $27.5 million from highway expansion to transit investment and helped MTS safeguard essential service levels. Through coalition-building, public engagement, and policy advocacy, he has reshaped regional conversations about funding and designing a sustainable transportation system for all.
Walk the Walk Awards
Winner #1: Hugo Salgado, County of San Diego
As Senior Planner in the County of San Diego’s Sustainability Planning Division, Hugo Salgado is recognized for his leadership in implementing the County’s Climate Action Plan and advancing clean transportation initiatives. His collaborative, community-based approach bridges planning and implementation—turning climate goals into on-the-ground improvements that reduce emissions and improve quality of life.
Winner #2: Nicole Capretz, Climate Action Campaign
Nicole Capretz, Founder and Executive Director of the Climate Action Campaign, is honored for her decade of leadership linking climate policy, housing, and transportation. Under her direction, San Diego’s Climate Action Plan became a national model for zero-carbon mobility and clean energy. Her advocacy unites environmental, housing, and transportation movements around shared goals for safe, affordable, and sustainable communities.
Winner #3: Councilmember Vivian Moreno, City of San Diego
Councilmember Vivian Moreno, representing District 8, is recognized for her leadership in advancing housing, land use, and equitable growth in San Diego. Through her service on SANDAG, MTS, and multiple city policy committees, she has championed community plan updates, zoning reforms, and infrastructure investments that expand housing opportunities and create safer, more walkable neighborhoods.
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Jeremy Bloom published PRESS RELEASE National Walk and Roll to School Day is October 8 in Press Room 2025-09-30 14:21:44 -0700
PRESS RELEASE National Walk and Roll to School Day is October 8
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2025
Contact: Leslie Aparicio, Assistant Planner
619-573-9017 | [email protected]PRESS RELEASE - National Walk and Roll to School Day is October 8
Join our community to celebrate safe, active trips to school
San Diego, Calif. – Circulate San Diego encourages families and students to buckle up their helmets and lace up their sneakers for National Walk and Roll to School Day. This annual event celebrates the benefits of exercise and brings attention to the need for safe, accessible walking and biking routes.
“National Walk and Roll to School Day is a great opportunity to highlight pedestrian safety and advocate for safer routes for walking and biking to school,” Circulate San Diego Director of Planning and Community Engagement Carlisle Dockery said. “This day underscores the importance of boosting physical activity and prioritizes the safety of the families in our community.”
While extra caution is needed on the morning of October 8, with increased foot and bike traffic, it’s important to stay alert every single day. Drivers should be prepared to stop for school buses and children crossing the street, and always slow down in school zones.
Circulate San Diego offers tips for ensuring students who walk, bike, or roll to school get there safely:
- Slow down at intersections and do not speed. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks. Avoid obstructing crosswalks and bike lanes when stopped.
- Stay alert. Don’t be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes (and ears) off the road.
- Use crosswalks, preferably at stop signs or signals. If there are unmarked crosswalks, cross at corners on streets.
- Plan your route on roads with sidewalks or paths away from traffic. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible or ride your bike in the same direction as traffic as far on the right-hand side as possible.
- Always wear a helmet when riding or rolling.
Schools are encouraged to register at walkbiketoschool.orgas a way of tracking participation and showing support for active, healthy, and safe transportation.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
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Jeremy Bloom published MEDIA ADVISORY: Circulate San Diego Celebrates Park(ing) Day in Chula Vista in Press Room 2025-09-18 08:03:24 -0700
MEDIA ADVISORY: Circulate San Diego Celebrates Park(ing) Day in Chula Vista
MEDIA ADVISORY – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 18, 2025
Contact:
Jeremy Bloom, Chief Operating Officer | 619-841-2258 | [email protected]
Circulate San Diego Celebrates Park(ing) Day in Chula VistaWhat
Circulate San Diego will host Park(ing) Day in Chula Vista, transforming ordinary curbside parking spaces into temporary public parks, called parklets. The event highlights how streets can be reimagined as more vibrant, pedestrian-friendly places. Photos from the 2024 event are attached below.
Why
For more than 20 years, Park(ing) Day has inspired communities worldwide to creatively rethink urban streets. This annual event sparks conversations about city design, public space, and mobility, showing how even small changes can make neighborhoods safer, healthier, and more engaging.
When
- Friday, September 19, 2025
- 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Where
- 282 3rd Ave A, Chula Vista CA 91910
Who
This year’s event is hosted by Circulate San Diego in partnership with the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), the City of Chula Vista, the Chula Vista Police Department,and local City of Chula Vista business El Cholo’s Kid. Community members, city leaders, and advocates will take part.
Event Website
https://www.circulatesd.org/city_of_chula_vista_park_ing_dayVisuals
Visuals
Reporters and photographers will find:
- Parklets designed to showcase creative reuses of street space
- Community members and leaders engaging with interactive installations
- Colorful displays and activities designed to demonstrate safe, people-friendly streets
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Jeremy Bloom published PRESS RELEASE - Nominees Announced for Circulate San Diego’s 2025 Momentum Awards in Press Room 2025-09-11 10:33:27 -0700
PRESS RELEASE - Nominees Announced for Circulate San Diego’s 2025 Momentum Awards
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 9, 2025Contact: Jeremy Bloom, Chief Operating Officer
619-841-2258 | [email protected]PRESS RELEASE - Nominees Announced for Circulate San Diego’s 2025 Momentum Awards
SAN DIEGO (September 11, 2025) – Circulate San Diego is proud to announce the nominees for the 2025 Momentum Awards, the region’s premier celebration of leadership in safe streets, public transit, and sustainable growth.
The Momentum Awards highlight the people and projects creating excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods. Since their launch, the awards have become a signature event for recognizing the partnerships and progress that shape our communities.
For nearly 25 years, Circulate San Diego has worked alongside local governments, community groups, and the private sector to push for safer streets, better transit, and more sustainable growth. The Momentum Awards celebrate the people and projects that are turning those goals into reality across the region.
“Our favorite part of the year at Circulate San Diego is when we get to recognize the agencies and advocates that are making our region a better place,” said Colin Parent, CEO and General Counsel of Circulate San Diego.
The 2025 Momentum Awards will return to Quartyard in Downtown San Diego on October 24that 5:30 p.m. Registration and event details are available atwww.circulatesd.org/awards2025.
The event invitation and photos from past Momentum Awards are attached.
2025 MOMENTUM AWARD NOMINEES
Advocate Award
- Haylee Rea - Strong Towns San Diego
- Kesav Gupta – San Diego 350
- Kristin Haukom - San Diego County Childhood Obesity Initiative’s (COI) Government Domain
- Mai Nguyen – UC San Diego
- Matthew Pendergraft - Bikes del Pueblo
- Public Transit Enthusiasts @ UC San Diego
- Wesley Cooksy - San Diego State University
Innovation Award
- La Mesa E-Bike Incentive Program - City of La Mesa
- Ending the Circuit Boondoggle - City of San Diego
- Parking Reform – City of San Diego
- Youth Council - Mid-City Community Advocacy Network
- Mobility Master Plan - City of San Diego, City Planning Department
- PRONTO Contactless Payment Project - San Diego Metropolitan Transit System
- The Griot Museum - New School of Architecture and Design
- Webster Green Alley Visioning Project - Groundwork San Diego – Chollas Creek
Public Transit Connectivity Award
- Clairemont Transit Corridor Beautification - Clairemont Town Council Foundation
- Zero Emission Sustainable Transportation Project - Flagship Cruises & Events
- Beyer Blvd Pathway Beautification Project - San Diego Metropolitan Transit System
Public Voice Award
- @sdmts.lovegang
- Brian White – CBS 8
- License to Kill, by Lauren Hepler and Robert Lewis – Calmatters
- Jake Gotta - KPBS
Safe Streets and Vision Zero Award
- Bachman Place Improvements, "One Big Beautiful Hill" – UC San Diego
- Chollas Creek Community Bike Survey Initiative - Groundwork San Diego – Chollas Creek
- Clairemont Drive Street Safety Project - City of San Diego, Transportation Department, Multi-Modal Section
- Lakeside Teen Center - County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation
- Del Sol and Kostner Quick Build Roundabout – City of San Diego
- El Cajon Blvd Streetscape Project - The City of El Cajon
- Grand Avenue Vision Project - City of Escondido
- Jones Elementary Bike Bus - Jones Elementary School PTA
- Safety & Ped/Bike Activity Corridors – County of San Diego
- ReBike San Diego
- Regional Vision Zero Action Plan - SANDAG
- Stand up for Safety | Intersection of Park Blvd, El Cajon Blvd, & Normal St - City of San Diego, District 3
- Strong Towns San Diego and Strong Towns Oceanside
MidCoast Award
- Automated bike lane, bus stop, and bus lane enforcement pilot – UC San Diego Transportation Department
- John Haggerty
- La Jolla Campus Long Range Development Plan Update – UC San Diego
Sustainable Growth Award
- City Heights Place and City Heights Plaza del Sol Mixed Use Affordable Housing - Wakeland Housing
- Valley Center Road Corridor Concept Plan - County of San Diego - Department of Public Works
- Kimball Highland Apartments - Community HousingWorks
- Mobility Master Plan - City of San Diego, City Planning Department
- Parkline Apartments - North Park - City of San Diego, City Planning Department
- Quang Vu Nguyen - Newschool of Architecture and Design
- The San Diego African American Museum of Fine Arts (SDAAMFA) - Newschool of Architecture and Design
- University District Specific Plan (aka North City) in San Marcos, CA - Urban Villages San Marcos, LLC (Gary Levitt) dba North City
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Jeremy Bloom published Help Empower Students & Advocate for Safer Streets! in Blog Posts 2025-03-07 09:25:33 -0800
Help Empower Students & Advocate for Safer Streets!
No parent should have to worry if their child will make it safely to school. But every day, kids in our communities face dangerous streets—faded crosswalks, speeding drivers, and missing sidewalks that put them at risk.
At Circulate San Diego, we work directly with school-age children to conduct pedestrian audits—teaching them how to assess their neighborhoods for safety and advocate for improvements. These hands-on experiences help kids become active participants in shaping safer streets, fostering independence and confidence.
On a recent pedestrian audit with a school in Chula Vista, we discovered faded crosswalks and drivers failing to yield to pedestrians, highlighting the urgent need for improvements in the area. After these audits, we take action—submitting service requests to the respective cities for the most dangerous issues we observe. This year, we’ve already seen progress, with one request resolved in National City and several submitted in the City of San Diego.
With your support, we can continue this vital work and ensure every child has a safe path to school. Together, we can create safer, healthier communities through direct engagement and strong policy advocacy.
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Jeremy Bloom donated 2025-01-28 13:26:22 -0800
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Jeremy Bloom published Check out the 2024 Momentum Award Photos! in Blog Posts 2024-12-09 13:18:59 -0800
Check out the 2024 Momentum Award Photos!
Check out all the photos from our 2024 Momentum Awards!
It was wonderful to come together, in person, for our 2024 Momentum Awards and celebrate the people and projects in the San Diego region that are creating excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods.
We want to thank everyone who attended, including our generous corporate sponsors. This night definitely could not have been as successful as it was without you.
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2024 YEAR-END RECAP
As we close out the year, we want to celebrate some incredible wins and share how we’re setting the stage for transformative land use and transportation policies in 2025. Your membership and support fuel Circulate San Diego’s advocacy and planning work, and we’re deeply grateful.
If you’ve already renewed your support for 2025, thank you! If not, now is the perfect time to recommit to our shared goals of fast transit, safe streets, and more housing. Corporate Membership renewals receive a 10% discount through December 31.
Together in 2024, we made San Diego a better place to live, work, and move around. Here are a few highlights:
Celebrated 25 Years of Advocacy: This year marked a milestone for Circulate San Diego, commemorating 25 years of shaping our region’s future. The merger of WalkSanDiego and MoveSanDiego in 2014 created Circulate, and for a quarter century, we’ve been a leading voice in land use and mobility innovation.
Enhanced Street Safety for All Ages: Our planning team engagedhundreds of young people and older adults in discussions about safe biking and walking, partnering with organizations across San Diego County to host transit, biking, and walking field trips.
Championed Access and Equity in the Coastal Zone: We released a groundbreaking report highlighting how over-regulation in the California Coastal Zone has delayed housing production and undermined recent state reform efforts. By spotlighting specific cases where policies have increased exclusivity instead of access, we reinforced the urgent need to align housing and transportation goals with the Coastal Act’s original vision. This report has become a rallying point for reform, ensuring the Coastal Zone serves all Californians, not just a privileged few.
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- Put Vision Zero in Focus: Our report,Vision Zero at 10 Years: Struggling Forward in Safety Crisis, revealed a troubling rise in pedestrian fatalities and called for urgent action from the City of San Diego to fully implement its plans, streamline processes, and complete quick build projects. Vision Zero has been a step forward, but without comprehensive implementation, it risks losing credibility—and lives continue to be lost. San Diego must do better.
- Achieved a visionary update to the UC Community Plan: After years of advocacy, the updated UC Community Plan delivers a bold vision for the future of University City. The plan paves the way for thousands of new homes and jobs near the trolley while enhancing connectivity through improved bus, bike, and pedestrian infrastructure. These changes will benefit the entire region, aligning with the goals outlined in our 2023 Making the Most of the Mid-Coast Trolley We were proud to celebrate this milestone by honoring Councilmember Kent Lee and the City of San Diego Planning Department at our Momentum Awards.
- Expanded Street Safety Engagement Across Communities: This year, we broadened our efforts to engage San Diego communities in building safer streets. With long-standing partners like the Office of Traffic Safety and the County of San Diego, as well as new collaborators like the City of Chula Vista and SDSU, we hosted bike rodeos, led walking field trips, and implemented demonstration projects. These initiatives empowered residents of all ages to envision and advocate for safer, more vibrant neighborhoods.
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- Transformed Street Safety Across Southern California: Partnering with the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), we implemented the 2024 Go Human Safety Strategies program. This initiative focuses on advancing equity-centered mobility and traffic safety through impactful projects, including the Go Human Community Streets grant, the Go Human Kit of Parts Lending Library, and tailored safety resources and trainings. By supporting communities with these tools and expertise, we are helping to create safer, more inclusive streets throughout the region.
- Looking ahead to 2025. You can support this work by renewing and increasing your membership, joining as a report or campaign sponsor, and sponsoring our annual Momentum Awards. We’re focusing on:
- Advocating for a More Inclusive Coastal Zone: Building on the momentum from our 2024 report and advocacy for AB 2560, we remain committed to reforming Coastal Commission practices that hinder housing access. While the bill didn’t pass this year, we are partnering with legislative allies to push forward reforms that ensure the Coastal Zone becomes a place where all Californians can live and thrive.
- Connecting Transit to the Airport: For years, Circulate San Diego has championed a rail connection between Downtown and the Airport to improve transit access for travelers and workers. In 2023, we secured commitments from the Airport and SANDAG to advance this project. In 2025, we’ll publish a comprehensive report analyzing how San Diego can fully realize this essential connection, ensuring our region keeps pace with other major cities.
- Expanding Safer Streets in South County: Building on our success in Chula Vista, we’re excited to extend our efforts to Imperial Beach in 2025. With projects focused on pedestrian and cyclist safety, these initiatives will highlight South County’s leadership in creating safer, more accessible streets for all.
I’m immensely proud of our talented team of planners and advocates who rose to every challenge in 2024. None of this would be possible without you—our valued supporters and partners.
With your help, we’ll continue advocating for better transit, safer streets, and affordable homes.
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Jeremy Bloom published PRESS RELEASE - Circulate San Diego Announces 2024 Momentum Award Winners in Press Room 2024-11-19 11:56:42 -0800
PRESS RELEASE - Circulate San Diego Announces 2024 Momentum Award Winners
PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jeremy Bloom
(619) 841-2258
[email protected]Circulate San Diego Announces 2024 Momentum Award Winners
San Diego, November 17, 2024— Circulate San Diego, a nonprofit organization committed to improving mobility and sustainability in the region, celebrated its 25th anniversary and recognized outstanding individuals and public agencies at its annual Momentum Awards ceremony. Held at the Quartyard in Downtown San Diego, the event brought together over 200 attendees, including elected officials, SANDAG and MTS representatives, and key figures from the transportation and land use sectors.
Circulate San Diego’s CEO, Colin Parent, reflected on the organization’s legacy, saying, “For a quarter of a century, Circulate and our predecessor organizations have been the leading voice in land use and mobility policy, pioneering innovative solutions that shape our region's future.”
The awards ceremony featured the presentation of seven community-nominated awards and the Walk-The-Walk Award. The Walk-The-Walk Award is given to local and statewide leaders who are actively advancing mobility choices and sustainable growth. This year's honorees included California State Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin and City of San Diego Councilman Kent Lee.
During his acceptance speech, Secretary Omishakin emphasized his commitment to improving street safety and building efficient transportation systems. He highlighted the various departments within the California State Transportation Agency working to enhance street safety through increased funding for the Active Transportation Program (ATP) and expand the state’s public transportation initiatives that promote sustainability and smart growth. The event featured pre-recorded remarks from, Secretary Omishakin, which are now accessible online.
Circulate San Diego was proud to recognize so many great projects and individuals in San Diego. We are grateful that so many people came out to celebrate our region’s progress.
All award winners are listed below. Photos from the event are attached to this release.
A downloadable copy of this Press Release is availablehere.
2024 Momentum Award Winners
Safe Streets and Vision Zero Award
Winner: Pershing Bikeway (SANDAG) - The Pershing Bikeway, a 2.3-mile project led by SANDAG, enhances safety, mobility, and connectivity between North Park, Downtown San Diego, and Balboa Park. With separated bike lanes, traffic-calming measures, and a dedicated walking path, it ensures safer travel for all ages and abilities. The bikeway also addresses infrastructure resilience with underground storm drains to mitigate flooding. By promoting active transportation and sustainability, it improves quality of life and supports local businesses during construction. Project Partners included the City of San Diego, Caltrans, and many advocacy groups.Public Transit Connectivity Award
Winner: Oceanside Transit Center Revitalization (NCTD)- The Oceanside Transit Center Revitalization is a collaborative effort between Toll Brothers Apartment Living and the North County Transit District (NCTD) that is transforming the transit center into a vibrant, mixed-use hub with modern facilities, mixed-income housing, and retail spaces designed to foster a lively and connected community. The project improves the transit experience with relocated bus terminals for easier pedestrian access to train platforms and enhanced connectivity across BREEZE buses, SPRINTER rail, COASTER commuter trains, and paratransit services. Features like secure bike parking, shaded waiting areas, and traffic-calming measures make the center more user-friendly, while integrating market-rate and affordable housing in a transit-rich area promotes sustainable urban living. With pedestrian-friendly design, public art, and water-wise landscaping reflecting Oceanside’s coastal character, the project aligns with local, regional, and state goals to reduce car dependence and encourage active transportation. NCTD and its partners are setting a new standard in transit-oriented development and paving the way for a more connected, sustainable future. Project partners included Toll Brothers Apartment Living, Arcadis Inc., Stantec, ANT Strategic Communications, and McCullough Landscape Architects.Innovation Award
Winner: Puesta del Sol / Amanecer Apartments (Community HousingWorks) - The Puesta del Sol and Amanecer Apartments provide affordable housing in Linda Vista, offering 96 units for families and 59 units for older adults. The development includes wrap-around services for vulnerable populations, such as former foster youth and veterans. The design features energy-efficient solutions, EV charging stations, and GreenPoint Rated certification. Its proximity to transit, shopping, and recreation promotes a car-free lifestyle, enhancing the neighborhood with play areas, gardens, and improved sidewalks.Public Voice Award
Winner: RideSD - RideSD is a dedicated watchdog group advocating for world-class public transit in San Diego. The group has pushed for impactful changes, such as the Metropolitan Transit System's adoption of contactless fare payment, making transit more accessible and reducing congestion. Through community-building and advocacy, RideSD fosters dialogue among transit advocates, city officials, and professionals, ensuring diverse perspectives in planning for a more connected and sustainable transit future.MidCoast Award
Winner: Pepper Canyon West Living and Learning Neighborhood (UC San Diego) - UC San Diego’s Pepper Canyon West project addresses housing needs while benefiting the wider community. Located next to the Blue Line Trolley, it provides 194 cohousing apartments, retail, dining, and open spaces. It offers affordable rents and promotes sustainable living with bike storage, carsharing, and immediate access to transit. The project also enriches campus life with amenities like public art and a weekly farmers market, encouraging walking, biking, and transit use.Sustainable Growth Award
Winner: City of San Diego Planning Department – This award recognizes the City of San Diego’s Planning Department for initiatives like the University Community Plan Update, Hillcrest Focused Plan Amendment, and Blueprint SD initiative. These projects prioritize housing, transit, and walkability, fostering sustainable growth by adding homes near transit and reducing car reliance. By aligning growth with climate and equity goals, they aim to create more livable, accessible neighborhoods.Advocate Award
Winner: Maria Cortez (City Heights CDC) - Maria Cortez is honored for her lifelong advocacy in City Heights, including her work saving homes from demolition and launching the Youth Opportunity Pass for free transit. Maria’s grassroots efforts continue to improve housing conditions and create a safer, more equitable City Heights.Walk the Walk Awards
Winner #1: California State Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin - Secretary Omishakin is recognized for his leadership in advancing safer streets, sustainable transportation, and equitable mobility across California. Under his leadership, the state has increased funding for public and active transportation programs, particularly the Active Transportation Program (ATP), and secured long-term funding for transit infrastructure. His work has shaped transportation policy, promoting a healthier, more connected California.Winner #2: Councilmember Kent Lee - Councilmember Kent Lee is honored for his leadership on affordable housing and safer streets in San Diego. He championed the University City Community Plan Update, which will improve regional mobility and provide affordable housing along the Mid-Coast Trolley corridor. As Chair of key committees, he has worked to address dangerous intersections and advance citywide housing policies.
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Jeremy Bloom published PRESS RELEASE - Nominees Announced for Circulate San Diego’s 2024 Momentum Awards in Press Room 2024-09-16 11:19:05 -0700
PRESS RELEASE - Nominees Announced for Circulate San Diego’s 2024 Momentum Awards
PRESS RELEASE – September 16, 2024
Contact:Jeremy Bloom, Acting CEO
619-841-2258 | [email protected]PRESS RELEASE - Nominees Announced for Circulate San Diego’s 2024 Momentum Awards
SAN DIEGO (September 16, 2024) – Circulate San Diego announced today the 2024 nominees for their annual Momentum Awards. The nominees are listed below.
Circulate San Diego’s Momentum Awards recognize the people and projects in the San Diego region that are creating excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods. This year’s event will feature a special recognition to our 25th anniversary. For a quarter of a century, Circulate and our predecessor organizations have been the leading voice in land use and mobility policy, pioneering innovative solutions that shape our region's future.
The 2024 Momentum Awards is back at Quart Yard in Downtown San Diego on November 15th, at 5:30 p.m. Registration and event details are online at http://www.circulatesd.org/awards2024.
All nominees are listed below. Award winners will be announced at the Momentum Awards on November 15th.
2024 MOMENTUM AWARD NOMINEES
Advocate Award
Michelle Gonzalez - Families for Safe Streets San Diego
Nancy Cavanaugh-Wilson - Families for Safe Streets San Diego
Maria Cortez - City Heights CDC
Oliver Asis - RideSD and BikeSD
Anar Salayev - Bike SD
Noura Bishay - Social Impact Urban Designer
Juca Favela - San Diego Bicycle CollectiveInnovation Award
Rad Power Bikes - San Diego
Bay to Park Paseo
Puesta del Sol / Amanecer Apartments - Community HousingWorks
Environmental Justice Element - City of San Diego
Syndicated Shared Mobility Solution
YIMBY Democrats San Diego
PRONTO Open Payment Project - San Diego Metropolitan Transit System
Dr. Bruce Appleyard - SDSUPublic Transit Connectivity Award
West - Carrier Johnson + Culture
Oceanside Transit Center Revitalization - Toll Brothers Apartment Living
The Transit-Oriented Lobby at Parkline North Park - Malick Infill Development
RideSD
Silvia Croft - SDSU, Parking and Transportation Services
Zac Bradt - SANDAGPublic Voice Award
Paul Session and Alex Riggins - The Union Tribune
Ben Christopher - CalMatters
Shelby Bremer, Kelvin Henry, Omari Fleming, Joey Safchik, and Dana Williams - NBC 7
Tigist Layne - Voice of San DiegoSafe Streets and Vision Zero Award
Angelica Rocha - Fehr & Peers
Community Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Training - San Diego County Vision Zero Coalition
Regional Vision Zero Action Plan - San Diego Association of Governments
6th Avenue Safety Improvements - City of San Diego
Bike Emergency Mobility and Safety Project - City of Encinitas
San Diego County Childhood Obesity Initiative
Pershing Bikeway - SANDAG
Chloé Lauer - San Diego County Bicycle CoalitionMid Coast Award
Mobility Initiative for Greater UTC - Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.
Pepper Canyon West Living and Learning Neighborhood (TOD) - UC San Diego
University Community Plan Update - City of San Diego, City Planning Department
COASTER Connection - North County Transit DistrictSustainable Growth Award
Oceanside Transit Center Redevelopment - North County Transit District
SDSU Mission Valley - SDSU
El Portal Pedestrian Undercrossing Project - City of Encinitas, in partnership with SANDAG and NCTD
Grantville Transit-Oriented Development Project - San Diego Metropolitan Transit System
Hillcrest Focused Plan Amendment - City of San Diego, City Planning Department
Blueprint SD Initiative (General Plan Refresh) – City of San Diego, City Planning Department###
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Jeremy Bloom published MEDIA ADVISORY - August 4 @ 10AM - Ghost Bike Installation for Kevin Wilson in Press Room 2024-07-31 10:00:13 -0700
MEDIA ADVISORY - August 4 @ 10AM - Ghost Bike Installation for Kevin Wilson
MEDIA ADVISORY
PRESS CONFERENCE: Ghost Bike Installation for Kevin Wilson
Contact:
Jeremy Bloom, Chief Operating Officer, Circulate San Diego – 619-841-2258 | [email protected]
Laura Keenan, Founder, Families For Safe Streets San Diego – 949-338-8237 | [email protected]>When: Sunday, August 4, 2024 at 10:00 AM
Where: On Dehesa Road in front of Singing Hills Golf Course - 3007 Dehesa Rd, El Cajon, CA 92019
Who:
- Laura Keenan, founder of Families for Safe Streets San Diego
- Nancy Cavanaugh-Wilson, member of Families for Safe Streets San Diego and wife of Kevin Wilson
What: Kevin Wilson was killed in 2020 at the age of 56 while riding his bike on Dehesa Road when he was run down from behind. Dehesa Road is a common cycling route and despite Kevin’s fatality, the street design remains unchanged. A “Ghost Bike” – a common memorial to cyclists killed in traffic violence like Kevin.
Join us for Kevin's Ghost Bike Memorial Installation Event on Sunday, August 4th at 10:00 am at On Dehesa Road in front of Singing Hills Golf Course - 3007 Dehesa Rd, El Cajon, CA 92019. Families for Safe Streets San Diego member Nancy Cavanaugh-Wilson and Doug Hoffman from the San Diego Bicycle Collective will be installing a ghost bike for her husband Kevin Wilson. August 4th would be Kevin's 61st birthday.
Thanks to the generosity of multiple organizations and individuals, including event cosponsors: Families for Safe Streets San Diego & Ghost Bike donated and prepared by San Diego Bicycle Collective. And, support from Vision Zero Coalition Organizations, including Circulate San Diego, San Diego County Bicycle Coalition and Bike SD.
Families for Safe Streets San Diego is a group of San Diego families who have lost loved ones to traffic violence while they were walking or biking.
Visuals:
- Nancy Cavanaugh-Wilson, widow of Kevin Wilson and member of Families for Safe Streets San Diego,
- Ghost Bike,
- Members of the mobility and cycling community.
A downloadable pdf of this Media Advisory is available here.
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About Circulate San Diego
Circulate San Diego is a regional nonprofit think tank dedicated to advancing mobility and makingthe region a better place to move, work, learn and play. Our work focuses on creatinggreat mobility choices, more walkable and bikeable neighborhoods, and land uses that promote sustainablegrowth. For more information, go to www.circulatesd.org.
About Families for Safe Streets San Diego
Families for Safe Streets San Diego is a group of families who have lost loved ones to traffic crashes or been affected ourselves. Through our stories and advocacy, we seek physical improvements on our streets, policy changes and the rapid implementation of Vision Zero. For more information, go to https://www.circulatesd.org/families_for_safe_streets_san_diego.
