2023 Thriving Communities Program Convening
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Event Overview
The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) Office of Public Engagement and Build America Bureau’s Office of Technical Assistance are hosting a Thriving Communities Program Convening at USDOT Headquarters in Washington, DC. The Convening will feature plenary sessions, interactive workshops, breakout sessions, and a resource and networking fair where participants will share their expertise, experiences, programs and discuss key issues through a peer-to-peer exchange. The two-day event is scheduled for November 30th and December 1st, 2023 and aims to connect communities with the technical tools and resources needed to advance a pipeline of transformative infrastructure projects that will increase mobility, identify equitable project solutions, reduce pollution, deploy innovative community engagement, address workforce development gaps, improve overall health outcomes, and expand affordable transportation options.
This event is designed to:
- Bring together community members and Capacity Builders across the Thriving Communities Program to build a collective understanding of shared ideas and common purpose.
- Share resources, experiences, and practices, creating new knowledge that can be shared back with “home” communities.
- Engage a peer network of leaders committed to accelerating transformative community-driven change.
Event Agenda
Click here to view the 2023 Thriving Communities Program Convening agenda.
Event Location
The event will be held at DOT Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Capacity Builders will work with Communities to determine travel to and from the event; more information about local travel can be found on the Directions to DOT Headquarters website.
Visitors to DOT Headquarters are required to show a government-issued ID and undergo standard security screening. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and minimize the number of bags to undergo screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register for this event?
Given facility capacity, 6 members from each Capacity Builder team and 3 members from each community team will be invited. This event is by invitation only. If you have questions, please contact your Capacity Builder team lead.
What time should we arrive and/or depart?
Please plan to attend a full day (8:30 am-5:00 pm) on November 30 and a partial day (8:30 am-3:30 pm) on December 1.
Will there be an option to join virtually? Will the event be recorded?
Community Partners are encouraged to join in person. However, all plenary events will be livestreamed and recorded. A summary of key takeaways from breakout sessions will be available after the event.
Will food be provided?
Visitors will be able order a pre-paid boxed lunch for delivery to USDOT Headquarters. There are a variety of breakfast and coffee options nearby including a Starbucks adjacent to the USDOT building. Information about ordering lunches will be provided closer to the date of the event.
Will Community Partners have time to meet with Capacity Builders one-on-one?
There will be a variety of activities taking place, including break-out sessions for Capacity Builders to have face-to-face time with their Community Partners and opportunities for networking and one-on-one discussions.
Will DOT be coordinating hotels?
Capacity Builders will lead the coordination of travel plans with Community Partners. Please be advised that there are no formal luggage storage facilities at USDOT (check with your hotel on this service).
What airport should we use?
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA Airport) is the closest airport to USDOT Headquarters. For information on parking and transportation (including public transit options), you can visit the DCA website. Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI Airport) and Dulles International Airport (IAD Airport) are also located in the greater DC area.
The US Department of Transportation is committed to providing equal access to the Thriving Communities Program Convening for all participants. If you need alternative formats or services because of a disability, and have not already communicated that need with your Capacity Builder, please contact Monica Guerra via e-mail Monica.Guerra@dot.gov with your request by close of business on Wednesday, November 1, 2023.