Planning in Progress 

by Kristen E. Humphrey, MLA, Local Assistance and Training Planner 

In May’s edition of Planning Practice Monthly, we featured the Maryland Department of Transportation’s (MDOT’s) Commuter Choice Maryland program in an article describing how this transportation demand-management program promotes alternatives (both pre- and post-pandemic) to driving alone, including teleworking, biking, walking, public transportation, and ridesharing. All these options are important because they help Maryland reduce congestion, conserve energy, protect the environment and improve the quality of life of all Marylanders.  

MDOT and Planning are coming together to tell the stories of employers all around Maryland that are working to support their employees in reducing their carbon footprints, saving money, and even get some exercise. A great example of a company that has risen to this challenge is Assedo Consulting, an African American, woman-owned enterprise established in 2012 to provide public outreach and communications services for planning, design, and construction projects. Recently Assedo was featured in MDOT’s webinar series addressing best telework practices as well as the agency’s newsletter highlighting their bike-friendly workplace practices.   

Commuter Choice Maryland is actively seeking more area businesses interested in having their best practices featured in future articles, blog posts and webinars. Provide inspiration to companies across Maryland by sharing your story with us – we want to hear from you!   

If you would like to have your company featured, please send an email to commuterchoice@mdot.maryland.gov or phone us at 410-865-1100 and leave a message. (Note: during the COVID-19 Pandemic, MDOT’s Commuter Choice Maryland offices remain “virtually” open and staff, who are teleworking themselves, are ready to assist Maryland employers and employees. Representatives are available Monday between 8:30 – 5:00 pm and check messages and email correspondence regularly.) 

To read more success stories of participating businesses, click here. For more information and resources for employers interested in supporting transportation alternatives, click here.