Cross-Regional Transit: How to Grow a Stronger and More Equitable Region

Gensler Design Exchange

In a new era of mobility, connectivity is a critical component to a resilient, inclusive, and vibrant region. The Capital Region of Baltimore, MD, Washington, D.C., and Richmond, V.A. has an immense opportunity to spur regional economic competitiveness and collaboration, build the nation's most inclusive economy, and increase access to affordable housing for millions of residents by focusing on a key transportation asset: the extensive regional rail network. Currently, the region's commuter rail systems' lines and operators are segmented by political boundaries, causing simple commutes to nearby destinations to be needlessly cumbersome and inefficient. Gensler, alongside regional interest groups like the Greater Washington Partnership, have sought to re-imagine this system as a unified, connected whole through The Capital Region Rail Vision. Today's guests have all been involved in the development of the Rail Vision, so we brought them together to discuss how we can work collaboratively to bring it to fruition and grow a stronger, more equitable and well-connected region.