Blogpost
2.7 minute read
February 04, 2025
Transit Equity Day, celebrated annually on February 4th, honors the legacy of Rosa Parks and serves as a call to action to ensure equitable access to safe, affordable, and sustainable public transit for all. At Harris & Associates, our purpose—“to build equitable, resilient, and sustainable communities.”—aligns seamlessly with the values of Transit Equity Day. Our work is guided by a clear vision of improving lives through the thoughtful design, management, and delivery of transformative infrastructure projects.
Harris & Associates is proud to contribute to transit equity through innovative solutions and collaborative partnerships. Below are some examples of how our projects embody our purpose and commitment to equitable transit:
Caltrain Electrification Project
Harris provided engineering services to support the electrification of Caltrain's corridor from San Francisco to San Jose. This project not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also improves service efficiency and accessibility for Bay Area residents. By transitioning to a sustainable and modern transit system, the project enhances mobility for underserved communities and fosters cleaner, greener transportation options.
Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) SURF! Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project
Partnering with Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST), Harris is providing pre-construction and construction management services for the SURF! BRT project. This high-quality transit solution will connect underserved coastal communities with employment hubs, educational institutions, and recreational destinations. The project highlights our dedication to improving access and connectivity for everyone, ensuring that transit remains an affordable and efficient option for all residents.
LA Metro LAX Crenshaw Transit Corridor Project
Harris provided key construction management services for the Crenshaw/LAX Transit Corridor, a light rail line designed to improve connections between neighborhoods historically underserved by transit and one of the nation’s busiest airports. This project prioritizes equity by increasing access to jobs, economic opportunities, and regional mobility while reducing traffic congestion and emissions. Additionally, the project created local employment opportunities, directly benefiting residents of the communities it serves.
City of Long Beach Artesia Great Boulevard Project
As part of our role in the Long Beach Artesia Great Boulevard Project, Harris is focused on enhancing multimodal transportation options, including improved pedestrian and bicycle facilities alongside bus transit upgrades. This project exemplifies equitable urban design, creating inclusive spaces and ensuring mobility for all users, regardless of income or physical ability.
California High-Speed Rail (CAHSR), Construction Package 1
As a managing partner of the joint-venture team working for the California High-Speed Rail Authority, Harris is delivering the inaugural 29-mile section between Madera and Fresno. This transformative project aims to connect northern and southern California, enhancing mobility and economic opportunities for Central Valley communities. Our role includes independent quality assurance, design and construction oversight, and environmental compliance, ensuring the project meets the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
Our Commitment to Transit Equity
Through our multidisciplinary expertise in civil engineering design, construction management, environmental planning, municipal finance and program management, Harris & Associates drives projects that bridge gaps in access, sustainability, and opportunity. We are proud to help cities and agencies achieve their goals for equity, sustainability, and community well-being.
This Transit Equity Day, we reaffirm our commitment to working with clients and communities to build inclusive, accessible, and sustainable transit systems that uplift everyone. Together, we can create a future where mobility is no longer a privilege but a right shared by all.
