Ryan Russo, Director of Oakland Department of Transportation
THURSDAY LUNCHEON SPEAKER
There is a new driver at the wheel of the city’s recently created Department of Transportation. The city named Ryan Russo as the department’s first director in March 2017, nine months after interim director Jeffrey Tumlin began laying the groundwork. He arrived after 14 years spent working in similar capacities in New York City. Ryan says that he was drawn to Oakland by “how strong the equity component is.” By that, he means “the recognition that transportation is more than transportation. It’s giving access to jobs, reducing household costs, ensuring that routes are safe and secure, and robust engagement with the public on issues and problems.” Russo is overseeing almost 300 people who work in traffic operations, crosswalk, signage and street repair. Come hear how Russo is leading initiatives to address he transportation needs of the city’s population, which are every bit as diverse as the city itself.
One block from the 19th Street BART station