Shawna Kitzman, AICP, RSP1’s Post

I have a strong mother, who comes from a strong mother. And my mom Teri Leonard Michaud just published her first book! It's based on her tough childhood, which was defined as much by her father's alcoholism and broken promises as it was by her mother's tenacity and fierce determination to raise six kids into good humans. Recognizing that this is a professional networking platform, here's the thing: my grandmother Rita's early marriage and motherhood were shaped by religious dogma and cultural norms, like the need to work full-time in an era when many women didn't. She needed an apartment lease, a bank account, and a car, none of which she could get without her husband's signature. She peeled him away from the local bar to get those essentials to earn a living and raise her family. This story is wrapped up in housing, finance, land use, and transportation decisions from bygone era that still determine how and where we live, and spend our time and take-home pay. With a high school degree, my grandmother worked her way up as a single mom, from part-time switchboard operator, to administrative assistant, and eventually (well past the timeline of this book) to the sidewalk inspector in the Engineering Department for the Town of West Hartford. Work has always been a big part of my identity. This book helps me understand some of that DNA, and beyond that, is an amazing story. I'm so proud of my mom. And my grandma. Where Are All the Kids? is available on Amazon or your local book seller. #workingmoms #singlemoms

My sister Ashley Rigby, the ultimate multi-hyphenate, will be presenting at #tedxhartford! She'll dive into how to retire limiting beliefs and build a retirement future that inspires. No matter what Ashley aspires to do, I trust she'll figure it out. Sometimes she succeeds, sometimes she fails, and other times she pivots. None of these experiences are more valuable than the other. I'm definitely going to be in the front row at this one.

We talked about improving dignity for operators and considering the different travel needs across genders as we improve bus systems. Thank you to my awesome panelists Olivia Mobayed, AICP Monica Waggoner and Melissa Kim for making this a success. Now let’s ride that 🚌 to the #WTSAC2024 gala! Toole Design Group

Next stop: New Orleans! Reach out if you plan to be there too.

Yesterday we celebrated our colleague Jake Berman, who is moving on from Toole after holding the esteemed position of being The Longest Tenured Boston Planning Team Member. We will miss you Jake, and if you’re a future client, be a good one. Toole Design Group

Ride Island is an exercise in advancing progress, forging partnerships, and embracing imperfections. In my 18 year career, this one may be my favorite. Come learn about the messiness of getting sh*t done.

I’m #hiring. Know anyone who might be interested?

I'm hiring! Do you have planning experience, want to work on a range of progressive multi-modal transportation projects, and conduct community engagement throughout southern New England? A few projects on our desks include a citywide Safe Routes to School plan, a statewide Safety Action Plan (with a healthy amount of data analysis), a regional bike implementation plan, and grant applications and technical assistance for our clients. Even if you do not meet *every* qualification of this role, please consider applying or reach out. #planning #visionzero #SRTS #bikeplanning #pedplanning https://lnkd.in/emJ8jESW

Ever wondered where bus operators use the restroom at the end of their route, especially if it's late at night? Probably not, but transit agencies are addressing this and other thorny challenges. Join me and a few amazing ladies from MBTA Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) and Los Angeles Metro as we explore how these agencies are redesigning bus networks to be more equitable and inclusive for riders and operators.

Our sunny biking and walking tour of Cambridge was definitely in my top 10 work days! Together with clients including Bike Newport RI, our Toole Design Group team is organizing a tour of some of the East Coast's best bike infrastructure for the Ride Island project. Jeffrey Rosenblum is our esteemed guide. Throw in a few stops at cafes and transit there and back, and it felt like a European field trip.