2026 NEPTC Municipal Forum Highlights
Earlier this month, municipal parking and transportation professionals from across New England gathered for the annual NEPTC Municipal Forum, an event focused on sharing practical insights, operational strategies, and leadership perspectives relevant to today’s rapidly evolving transportation landscape.
The forum brought together municipal leaders, transit professionals, and industry partners to explore how cities are addressing common challenges such as safety, transparency, curbside management, and transit modernization. Attendees gained insight into how municipalities across the region are adapting their policies and operations to better serve residents, businesses, and visitors.
A highlight of the forum was the opening session led by Somerville, Massachusetts Mayor Jake Wilson. Mayor Wilson discussed the city’s ongoing commitment to Vision Zero, expanded bike infrastructure, and its partnership with the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). The mayor emphasized how these initiatives reflect Somerville’s broader strategy to improve safety and mobility while supporting more sustainable transportation options. He also took time to recognize the work of Somerville’s Engineering, Mobility, and Parking Department staff, thanking them for their continued efforts to implement projects and policies that make the city safer and more accessible for residents and visitors.
Another major theme centered on leadership in an increasingly complex environment. Motivational speaker Kenya Rutland, shared perspectives on navigating uncertainty during periods of rapid change.
Additionally, Brad Rawson from the City of Somerville led a discussion on transparency and public communication. He explored how cities can strengthen trust with residents through clearer policies, improved communication, and more transparent decision-making around transportation initiatives.
The forum also addressed the growing importance of curbside management and transit integration in cities. Alex Hallowell from the MBTA and Becca Wolfson from Better Bus Network shared insights into efforts to support transit through targeted curbside enforcement and bus network improvements.
Finally, Magot Zuckerman from Automotus highlighted the role of camera enforcement in managing loading zones and double parking, emphasizing the importance of data collection.
Beyond the presentations, the Municipal Forum reinforced one of NEPTC’s core strengths: creating a space where municipal professionals and industry partners can exchange ideas, share experiences, and discuss real-world challenges facing their communities. These conversations allow participants to learn from one another and bring new strategies back to their own municipalities.
By bringing together leaders from across the region, the NEPTC Municipal Forum once again demonstrated the value of collaboration in advancing thoughtful, effective parking and transportation programs throughout New England.
NEPTC is honored to have the opportunity to bring our community together to discuss these important issues. We look forward to doing it again soon! Special thanks to our event sponsors Municipal Parking Services and Automotus for making this event possible!
Join us for our next events! Registration is open for the NEPTC Annual Golf Tournament, August 6 at Stow Acres, and stay tuned for details about our Annual Conference & Trade Show, September 28-30 in Providence!
