RTC Planning Manager Receives Western Planner Citizen Planner Award
Andrew Kjellman recognized as planning champion and leader, despite pandemic challenges

Click to Tweet: .@RTCSNV celebrates Andrew Kjellman’s award from the Western Planner as planning champion and leader despite pandemic challenges

LAS VEGAS – The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) is happy to celebrate its own Andrew Kjellman, transportation planning manager at the RTC. He received the Western Planner’s Citizen Planner Award for rising above the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and leading his team to complete the 30-year Regional Transportation Plan for Southern Nevada, or Access 2050. Every year, the planning organization recognizes professionals who embody the principles of planning and are champions and leaders in the industry.

As the Metropolitan Planning Organization for Southern Nevada, the RTC is required to update its long range Regional Transportation Plan every four years. A critical component of that update is community input and feedback on long-term transportation projects that will impact our entire valley. 

“COVID-19 has created challenges across the country for community engagement and connection on all levels,” said David Swallow, RTC deputy CEO. “It is a testament to Andrew’s vision and dedication that we were able to engage on a new level with our community on a transportation plan that will impact the entire valley for decades to come.”

In light of the pandemic, and the limits that were placed on in-person engagement, extra efforts were made to develop a user-friendly website with a digital survey, a detailed video explaining the key components of the plan and significant projects and heavy social media outreach. The response was unprecedented for this plan. Under Andrew’s direction, the RTC reached more than 20,000 individuals, resulting in thousands of social media comments, and nearly 500 survey responses.

Access 2050 was well received from our community as well, with 88% of respondents agreeing with the sentiment that the Access 2050 transportation plan will help get them where they need to go. 

For more information on Access 2050 and the transportation projects planned for Southern Nevada, visit rtcsnv.com/access2050.

About the RTC
The RTC is the regional authority overseeing public transit, metropolitan planning, roadway funding, traffic management, and the public bike share system. The RTC’s vision is to advance regionally transformative mobility solutions through equitable, innovative and sustainable infrastructure development. The RTC’s mission is to elevate quality of life for residents and visitors through sustainable planning, collaborative problem-solving, and safe and equitable transportation service. For more information about the RTC and our major initiatives or to download the rideRTC app, visit rtcsnv.com. Stay informed by subscribing to our blog or following us on social media.

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