2025 Transportation Industry Forum
Read the Forum Program Booklet here
Miami-Dade TPO successfully hosted the 2025 Transportation Industry Forum for almost 400 participants, emceed by Constance Jones, a two-time Emmy® nominated journalist for NBC 6 News. The Forum was a one-day peer exchange that brought together leaders from both the public and private sectors to discuss ideas and innovative strategies for accelerating project delivery. These exchanges served as a platform for sharing best practices, identifying emerging trends, and fostering collaboration between key stakeholders. It initiated vital discussions among partners, TPO Board Members, public officials, organizations, technical staff, and the private sector on the importance of developing safe, connected, and mobility-focused transportation facilities in Miami-Dade County and the surrounding region.
WELCOME & OPENING REMARKS
The morning began with Honorable Anthony Rodriguez, Miami-Dade TPO Chairman, providing opening remarks that included the recent opening of the South Dade Metro Express and importance of a safe transportation system that provides mobility options for the community. Honorable Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade County Mayor, then discussed the importance of the County’s partnership with the Miami-Dade TPO Governing Board who adopted the SMART Plan placing this corridor as one of the top priorities within Miami-Dade County. Miami-Dade TPO Executive Director, Aileen Bouclé, AICP, finalized the opening remarks session emphasizing the need for continued collaboration between transportation partner agencies to move forward transportation solutions together for the region.
Watch TPO’s video honoring the Opening of the South Dade Metro Bus Express
SESSION I: THE FUTURE OF TRANSPORTATION: OPPORTUNITIES & CHALLENGES
The session was moderated by both Honorable Joseph M. Corradino, AICP, Village of Pinecrest Mayor, and Alice Bravo, P.E., President & CEO, Alice Bravo & Associates. Elected official presenters included Honorable Anthony Rodriguez, Chairman, Miami-Dade TPO & Board of County Commissioners (BCC), Honorable Eric Diaz-Padron, Vice Chairman, Miami-Dade TPO & Mayor of West Miami, Honorable Kionne McGhee, TPO Board Member and Vice Chairman, BCC, and Honorable Danielle Cohen Higgins, TPO Board Member and County Commissioner. Private sector panelists included Alicia Cervera Lamadrid, Managing Partner, Principal, Cervera Real Estate, Eduardo De Lara, Managing Director North America, Sacyr Concessions, David Martin, Chief Executive Officer, Terra, and Jose R. Mas, Chief Executive Officer, MasTec, Inc.
Together this public/private panel shared their perspectives on current priorities, legislative actions, and policy initiatives that impact mobility and infrastructure across the region. From funding strategies to project delivery and community needs, this discussion provided insight on how leadership is aligning efforts to advance a stronger, more connected transportation network for Miami-Dade County and the region.
KEYNOTE ADRESS
Jared W. Perdue, P.E., Secretary, Florida Department of Transportation, focused on impacts of growth on the transportation system throughout the State of Florida. He discussed how the Moving Florida Forward Initiative is aiming to improve congestion and safety for transportation as well as improve the supply chain throughout the state. Florida is a leader in transportation, has unique context and landscape, and is both a nationwide and global leader for how to implement transportation infrastructure planning, policy, and financing, as well as project delivery. In fact, cities around the world seek to emulate Florida as every transportation mode is promoted. He also shared that FDOT is focused on direct trade routes and continues to build international relations. On the local level, he highlighted the importance of major projects including the Golden Glades Interchange Reconstruction project, I-395 Design-Build, and the Okeechobee Road Reconstruction project as critical improvements to Miami-Dade County’s transportation system. In closing, Secretary Perdue emphasized that the power of partnership is critical, because complex problems cannot be solved alone nor without strong relationships founded on trust.
TPO TRANSPORTATION SAFETY INFLUENCERS SAFETY CAMPAIGN UNVEILING CEREMONY
Honorable Roberto J. Alonso, Miami-Dade TPO and Miami-Dade County Public School Board Member joined by the Principal of New World School of the Arts, along with TPO Executive Director, Aileen Bouclé, AICP, unveiled the TPO’s Transportation Safety Influencers. The mascots were designed by students as part of a contest aimed at developing a character to help promote bicycle and pedestrian safety for all age groups. Mobility Guardian took the win with Mobility Maven and Mobility Maverick chosen as Mobility Guardian’s friends.
Watch the video inspired by the students’ creativity
SESSION II: THE FINAL STRETCH: MOBILITY SOLUTIONS & INNOVATIONS FOR CONNECTING COMMUNITIES
The session was moderated by Javier Betancourt, Executive Director, Citizens’ Independent Transportation Trust, with panelists Meg Daly, Founder & Executive Chair, Friends of The Underline, Stacy L. Miller, P.E., Director & CEO, M-DC Department of Transportation & Public Works, and Jason Spiegel, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Freebee.
These leading voices in mobility innovation explored how Miami-Dade County can better bridge the critical first and last mile gap that often determines whether people embrace public transit. They discussed the role of transformative urban trails in creating active, connected corridors; the County’s efforts toward seamless multimodal integration; and the growing importance of on-demand, zero-emission microtransit in solving transportation challenges. Together, the panel examined ideas for connecting communities, improving accessibility, and advancing a more efficient transportation network shaping the region’s future.
SESSION III: EDGE OF INNOVATION: LOGISTICS, TECHNOLOGY & ECONOMIC FORECASTING FOR MIAMI-DADE’S GLOBAL GATEWAYS
The session was moderated by Jimmy Morales, Chief Operating Officer, Miami-Dade County, with logistics panelists Ralph Cutié, Director & CEO, Miami-Dade Aviation Department/MIA and Hydi Webb, Director & CEO, Miami-Dade County Seaport Department/PortMiami.
This group explored the critical role of Miami-Dade County’s airports and seaport as global gateways driving regional and international commerce. They discussed how cutting-edge technologies, innovative logistics strategies, and forward-looking economic forecasts are shaping the future of trade, travel, and connectivity. They also shared challenges and opportunities ahead as Miami-Dade County strengthens its position as a world-class hub for goods and people.
SESSION IV: SOUTHEAST FLORIDA REGIONAL COLLABORATION
The session was moderated by David Dech, Executive Director, SFRTA/Tri-Rail, with regional panelists Aileen Bouclé, AICP, Executive Director, Miami-Dade TPO, Valerie Neilson, AICP, Executive Director, Palm Beach MPO, and Gregory Stuart, Executive Director, Broward MPO.
This session brought together the three Southeast Florida MPO partner agencies to discuss the region’s transportation priorities. Together they highlighted the recently adopted Southeast Florida 2050 Regional Transportation Plan, as well as ongoing projects, and shared opportunities and challenges. They explained how the three MPOs are aligning priorities to deliver a more efficient, reliable, and future-ready transportation system.
FORUM CLOSING
The Forum closed with final remarks from Jose Clavell, P.E., Vice President, Transportation, US South, EXP and Aileen Bouclé, AICP, Executive Director, Miami-Dade TPO, as well as the results of the audience surveys taken throughout the day. They invited attendees to stay engaged in the space of working together to move important mobility projects forward for the Southeast Florida region.
“MOBILITY MATTERS” LIVE INTERVIEWS
The Citizens' Independent Transportation Trust (CITT) hosted a “Mobility Matters” pop-up studio running concurrently to the Forum. Exclusive podcast interviews were recorded live with Host Javier Betancourt, CITT Executive Director, and notable guests, including TPO Executive Director, Aileen Bouclé, AICP, Miami-Dade County’s Chief Operations Officer, Jimmy Morales, Miami-Dade Aviation Department Director & CEO, Ralph Cutié, PortMiami Director & CEO, Hydi Webb, Miami-Dade DTPW Director & CEO, Stacy L. Miller, P.E., South Florida Regional Transportation Authority/Tri-Rail Executive Director, David Dech, among others.
View the full lineup of interviews on CITT's YouTube Channel here
Miami-Dade TPO successfully hosted the 2025 Transportation Industry Forum for almost 400 participants, emceed by Constance Jones, a two-time Emmy® nominated journalist for NBC 6 News. The Forum was a one-day peer exchange that brought together leaders from both the public and private sectors to discuss ideas and innovative strategies for accelerating project delivery. These exchanges served as a platform for sharing best practices, identifying emerging trends, and fostering collaboration between key stakeholders. It initiated vital discussions among partners, TPO Board Members, public officials, organizations, technical staff, and the private sector on the importance of developing safe, connected, and mobility-focused transportation facilities in Miami-Dade County and the surrounding region.
WELCOME & OPENING REMARKS
The morning began with Honorable Anthony Rodriguez, Miami-Dade TPO Chairman, providing opening remarks that included the recent opening of the South Dade Metro Express and importance of a safe transportation system that provides mobility options for the community. Honorable Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade County Mayor, then discussed the importance of the County’s partnership with the Miami-Dade TPO Governing Board who adopted the SMART Plan placing this corridor as one of the top priorities within Miami-Dade County. Miami-Dade TPO Executive Director, Aileen Bouclé, AICP, finalized the opening remarks session emphasizing the need for continued collaboration between transportation partner agencies to move forward transportation solutions together for the region.
Watch TPO’s video honoring the Opening of the South Dade Metro Bus Express
SESSION I: THE FUTURE OF TRANSPORTATION: OPPORTUNITIES & CHALLENGES
The session was moderated by both Honorable Joseph M. Corradino, AICP, Village of Pinecrest Mayor, and Alice Bravo, P.E., President & CEO, Alice Bravo & Associates. Elected official presenters included Honorable Anthony Rodriguez, Chairman, Miami-Dade TPO & Board of County Commissioners (BCC), Honorable Eric Diaz-Padron, Vice Chairman, Miami-Dade TPO & Mayor of West Miami, Honorable Kionne McGhee, TPO Board Member and Vice Chairman, BCC, and Honorable Danielle Cohen Higgins, TPO Board Member and County Commissioner. Private sector panelists included Alicia Cervera Lamadrid, Managing Partner, Principal, Cervera Real Estate, Eduardo De Lara, Managing Director North America, Sacyr Concessions, David Martin, Chief Executive Officer, Terra, and Jose R. Mas, Chief Executive Officer, MasTec, Inc.
Together this public/private panel shared their perspectives on current priorities, legislative actions, and policy initiatives that impact mobility and infrastructure across the region. From funding strategies to project delivery and community needs, this discussion provided insight on how leadership is aligning efforts to advance a stronger, more connected transportation network for Miami-Dade County and the region.
KEYNOTE ADRESS
Jared W. Perdue, P.E., Secretary, Florida Department of Transportation, focused on impacts of growth on the transportation system throughout the State of Florida. He discussed how the Moving Florida Forward Initiative is aiming to improve congestion and safety for transportation as well as improve the supply chain throughout the state. Florida is a leader in transportation, has unique context and landscape, and is both a nationwide and global leader for how to implement transportation infrastructure planning, policy, and financing, as well as project delivery. In fact, cities around the world seek to emulate Florida as every transportation mode is promoted. He also shared that FDOT is focused on direct trade routes and continues to build international relations. On the local level, he highlighted the importance of major projects including the Golden Glades Interchange Reconstruction project, I-395 Design-Build, and the Okeechobee Road Reconstruction project as critical improvements to Miami-Dade County’s transportation system. In closing, Secretary Perdue emphasized that the power of partnership is critical, because complex problems cannot be solved alone nor without strong relationships founded on trust.
TPO TRANSPORTATION SAFETY INFLUENCERS SAFETY CAMPAIGN UNVEILING CEREMONY
Honorable Roberto J. Alonso, Miami-Dade TPO and Miami-Dade County Public School Board Member joined by the Principal of New World School of the Arts, along with TPO Executive Director, Aileen Bouclé, AICP, unveiled the TPO’s Transportation Safety Influencers. The mascots were designed by students as part of a contest aimed at developing a character to help promote bicycle and pedestrian safety for all age groups. Mobility Guardian took the win with Mobility Maven and Mobility Maverick chosen as Mobility Guardian’s friends.
Watch the video inspired by the students’ creativity
SESSION II: THE FINAL STRETCH: MOBILITY SOLUTIONS & INNOVATIONS FOR CONNECTING COMMUNITIES
The session was moderated by Javier Betancourt, Executive Director, Citizens’ Independent Transportation Trust, with panelists Meg Daly, Founder & Executive Chair, Friends of The Underline, Stacy L. Miller, P.E., Director & CEO, M-DC Department of Transportation & Public Works, and Jason Spiegel, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Freebee.
These leading voices in mobility innovation explored how Miami-Dade County can better bridge the critical first and last mile gap that often determines whether people embrace public transit. They discussed the role of transformative urban trails in creating active, connected corridors; the County’s efforts toward seamless multimodal integration; and the growing importance of on-demand, zero-emission microtransit in solving transportation challenges. Together, the panel examined ideas for connecting communities, improving accessibility, and advancing a more efficient transportation network shaping the region’s future.
SESSION III: EDGE OF INNOVATION: LOGISTICS, TECHNOLOGY & ECONOMIC FORECASTING FOR MIAMI-DADE’S GLOBAL GATEWAYS
The session was moderated by Jimmy Morales, Chief Operating Officer, Miami-Dade County, with logistics panelists Ralph Cutié, Director & CEO, Miami-Dade Aviation Department/MIA and Hydi Webb, Director & CEO, Miami-Dade County Seaport Department/PortMiami.
This group explored the critical role of Miami-Dade County’s airports and seaport as global gateways driving regional and international commerce. They discussed how cutting-edge technologies, innovative logistics strategies, and forward-looking economic forecasts are shaping the future of trade, travel, and connectivity. They also shared challenges and opportunities ahead as Miami-Dade County strengthens its position as a world-class hub for goods and people.
SESSION IV: SOUTHEAST FLORIDA REGIONAL COLLABORATION
The session was moderated by David Dech, Executive Director, SFRTA/Tri-Rail, with regional panelists Aileen Bouclé, AICP, Executive Director, Miami-Dade TPO, Valerie Neilson, AICP, Executive Director, Palm Beach MPO, and Gregory Stuart, Executive Director, Broward MPO.
This session brought together the three Southeast Florida MPO partner agencies to discuss the region’s transportation priorities. Together they highlighted the recently adopted Southeast Florida 2050 Regional Transportation Plan, as well as ongoing projects, and shared opportunities and challenges. They explained how the three MPOs are aligning priorities to deliver a more efficient, reliable, and future-ready transportation system.
FORUM CLOSING
The Forum closed with final remarks from Jose Clavell, P.E., Vice President, Transportation, US South, EXP and Aileen Bouclé, AICP, Executive Director, Miami-Dade TPO, as well as the results of the audience surveys taken throughout the day. They invited attendees to stay engaged in the space of working together to move important mobility projects forward for the Southeast Florida region.
“MOBILITY MATTERS” LIVE INTERVIEWS
The Citizens' Independent Transportation Trust (CITT) hosted a “Mobility Matters” pop-up studio running concurrently to the Forum. Exclusive podcast interviews were recorded live with Host Javier Betancourt, CITT Executive Director, and notable guests, including TPO Executive Director, Aileen Bouclé, AICP, Miami-Dade County’s Chief Operations Officer, Jimmy Morales, Miami-Dade Aviation Department Director & CEO, Ralph Cutié, PortMiami Director & CEO, Hydi Webb, Miami-Dade DTPW Director & CEO, Stacy L. Miller, P.E., South Florida Regional Transportation Authority/Tri-Rail Executive Director, David Dech, among others.
View the full lineup of interviews on CITT's YouTube Channel here