Skip to Content
Streetsblog California home
Streetsblog California home
Log In
Damien Talks

#DamienTalks 29: Coalitions, Taxes and Placemaking with Jessica Meaney

This week #DamienTalks with Jessica Meaney, a longtime friend of Streetsblog and the founder of the Los Angeles based Investing In Place. Meaney has been a leading fighter for equity in transportation planning and funding by mode, by geographic need and by economic need.

Meaney (right, pictured with her friend and fellow Streetsie winner Alissa Walker) was Streetsblog Los Angeles' advocate of the year in 2013.
Meaney (right, pictured with her friend and fellow Streetsie winner Alissa Walker) was Streetsblog Los Angeles' advocate of the year in 2013.
Meaney (right, pictured with her friend and fellow Streetsie winner Alissa Walker) was Streetsblog Los Angeles' advocate of the year in 2013.

Today we focus on Meaney's efforts to insure that any future sales tax passed for transportation infrastructure is used to create stronger communities that serve the people who live there and address regional mobility needs. Tomorrow, Los Angeles County Metro will unveil the results of a needs analysis for active transportation needs in the county which could go a long way in determining what a future sales tax will look like.

The interview also touches on best practices for advocates around the state who are facing sales tax measures on the ballot this fall. How do you build a coalition for active transportation? How do you judge whether a measure can successfully address the mobility needs of all residents?

We’re always looking for sponsors, show ideas, and feedback. You can contact me at damien@streetsblog.org, at twitter @damientypes, online at Streetsblog California or on Facebook at StreetsblogCA.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog California

Today’s Headlines

That VTA strike is a real downer as the state continues to position itself in the Trump era...

March 14, 2025

Video: Welcome to the War on ‘Woke’ Transportation

Overwhelmed by weeks of federal attacks on green and equitable transportation? Catch up with this explainer and plug in to the fight.

March 13, 2025

Couple of Caltrain Updates

If AI's good enough for driverless cars, why not use it to keep trains safe too? Plus Caltrain wants you to take the train to the parade The post Couple of Caltrain Updates appeared first on Streetsblog San Francisco.

March 13, 2025

Draft State Highway System Management Plan Urges State to Move Away from Gas Tax or Face Funding Shortfalls

The Draft State Highway System Management Plan (SHSMP) provides a ten-year prediction of statewide transportation funding needs

March 13, 2025

Transform, Partners Demand $2 Billion for the Bus

A coalition of transit advocates, providers, and unions is urging California’s Senate and Assembly leaders to put $2 billion for transit operations and capital improvements into the state’s budget.

March 13, 2025
See all posts