December Meeting
The December section meeting hosted by the transportation committee featured a talk on bus rapid transit (BRT). Katie Roth, Assistant Director of Bus Rapid Transit Projects with Metro Transit, presented on the recent successes of BRT implementation in the Twin Cities as well as what the future holds for this strategic transit option. Ridership and user experience for Line A and Line C underscore the promise of the approach, particularly route speed, reliability, and trip number growth. Based on pre-COVID ridership, current, planned and potential ridership on BRT is estimated to be 50% of all MetroTransit bus rides. Katie discussed the planning considerations for future corridor selection and line development for BRT network growth as the 'Network Next' planning process. The broad interest in the topic was highlighted by the largest attendance at a section meeting since going remote. Over 65 engineers and planners attended this engaging seminar.
January Meeting
As the section continues to adapt to the new normal, the annual membership appreciation event went virtual in 2021. In conjunction with the Younger Member Group, the ASCE MN Section hosted a Trivia Mafia event for our January meeting. The members in attendance were divided into four teams that answered questions on movies, songs, science, pop culture, and, of course, civil engineering. The competition was tight and ultimately #Engineers won the night. Thanks to all those who attended and we look forward to celebrating our members again next January!
Lauren Linderman
Director of Events
