The Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency (NOACA) welcomed regional leaders and transportation stakeholders for its 2026 Transportation Day on April 1, bringing together local, state, and national stakeholders to discuss the future of federal surface transportation policy and its impact on Northeast Ohio.
Held in partnership with the Northeast Ohio Mayors and City Managers Association, Cuyahoga County Mayors and City Managers Association, and the First Suburbs Consortium, the event focused on the upcoming reauthorization of the nation’s surface transportation law and the importance of advancing policies that prioritize safety, accountability, and efficient local project delivery.
During the event, NOACA highlighted its ongoing work with communities across Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, and Medina counties to maintain and improve the region’s transportation network. Discussions also centered on what lies ahead following the expiration of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) in September and how regional stakeholders can help shape future federal transportation funding and policy decisions.
Special guest Congresswoman Shontel Brown provided insight into federal transportation priorities and reauthorization efforts, emphasizing the significance for local communities and regional infrastructure investment.
Attendees also heard from members of the Local Officials in Transportation (LOT) Coalition, including:
- Katie Economou, Association of Metropolitan Planning Organizations
- Ben Gilsdorf, National Association of Counties
- Brittney Kohler, National League of Cities
- Leeann Sinpatanasakul, National Association of Regional Councils
Speakers discussed current proposals before Congress aimed at improving project delivery, addressing deficient infrastructure, and accelerating the implementation of regional priority projects.
The event underscored the importance of a coordinated regional voice in advocating for a modernized transportation law—one that directs funding to where people travel most, where projects are ready to advance, and where safety improvements are urgently needed.
You can see the presentation here.
