By: Matthew W. Daus, Esq. President, International Association of Transportation Regulators
The International Association of Transportation Regulators (“IATR”) held its 37th Annual Conference in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida from October 7 to 11, 2024. This year’s theme was “Regulatory Sunshine” and covered topics such as artificial intelligence, modernizing taximeters, and innovative partnerships.
As always, the IATR conference surpassed expectations. Highlights included outstanding keynote speakers, a boot camp on taximeter technology and artificial intelligence, and three full days packed with insightful educational sessions, networking opportunities, and engaging entertainment. With just 48 hours’ notice due to Hurricane Milton, The Dalmar Hotel graciously accommodated us for our gala event. Rick Versace and A1A Limo went above and beyond, providing Sprinter buses to safely transport guests to and from the event, ensuring everything ran smoothly.
The post-conference survey results from conference attendees reveal high satisfaction, with over 80% of respondents rating the event as "very good" or "excellent." Additionally, 91% of participants said the conference met or exceeded their expectations, reflecting the event's ability to deliver valuable content and an engaging experience. Several attendees even described it as the best conference they had ever attended, further emphasizing the exceptional quality of the event.
This year’s conference would not have been possible without the invaluable support of our sponsors: A1A Limo, Banclease Acceptance, Black Car Fund, Blacklane, BlueSystems, Broda Seating, Carmel Limo, Create-A-Card, Curb Mobility, Flywheel, Gudient, Auvetech, HopSkipDrive, iCabbi NA, Independent Driver's Guild, Nexar, Research Underwriters, Stop For Kids, tappCONNECT, Uber Technology, Inc., Via, VetCycle, Voyager Global Mobility, Waymo, Windels Marx, and Zoox.
The conference planning team did an outstanding job. I want to give a special shout-out to our membership director, Kim Ramkishun, as well as our videographer/photographer, Andriy Blagay, and our conference planner, Bianca Blag (https://biancab.com/), along with her team members, Jairina Capellan, Alisa Williams, Michelle Isadora, and Ava King.
Keynote Speakers
From left to right: Stacy Ritter (Visit Lauderdale); Warren S. Whitlock (Race Forward); Dan Reid (The Transportation Alliance)
Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale, welcomed attendees with a speech emphasizing Broward County’s vibrant tourism, diverse attractions, and strategic advantages, including its income tax-free status and 3,000 hours of annual sunshine. Ritter highlighted the importance of accessibility, explaining that Broward County has a dedicated department that maps out the county to assist mobility-impaired travelers. She also reflected on her role in the 2015 “Uber wars.”
Warren S. Whitlock, Deputy Director for Federal Strategies at Race Forward, delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the need for a 360-degree approach to transportation equity and civil rights. Drawing on his career, including prosecuting the first Title VI discrimination case at the Federal Highway Administration, he stressed the importance of legal knowledge, inclusivity, and strategic influence in shaping equitable projects.
Dan Reid, President of The Transportation Alliance (“TTA”), highlighted the organization’s evolution and its focus on taxis, limousines, paratransit, Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (“NEMT”), and student transportation services. He emphasized innovation, the importance of NEMT regulations, and the need for technology to prevent fraud. Reid also outlined plans for regional conferences and legislative priorities like protecting the independent contractor model.
Matt Daus (IATR President); Victoria Sheehan (Transportation Research Board)
Victoria Sheehan, Executive Director, Transportation Research Board of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Sheehan came to the National Academies from the New Hampshire Department of Transportation, where she was commissioner for seven years. Responsible for an operating budget of over $650 million, she oversaw more than 1,600 employees representing areas such as aeronautics, rail, transit, construction, operations, finance, and administration.
IATR Awards
Regulator of the Year Award
This year’s Regulator of the Year Award went to Bharathi Kumaran, Deputy Director at the Singapore Land Transport Authority (“LTA”). The award was presented by last year’s awardee, Grant Heather, Manager of the Vehicles for Hire Office at the City of Winnipeg Parking Authority. Kumaran has over 10 years of experience in public service and currently leads the division that oversees policy development, data analysis, and licensing operations for the point-to-point transport industry. LTA was recognized for achievements in transportation regulation, including a multimodal transportation network, digital licenses, and creating 20-minute towns and 45-minute cities. The IATR also chose the LTA for this award as its governance framework is truly multi-modal and is an example of the regulatory agency of the future.
Norma Reyes Scholarship
Matthew Daus and Norma Reyes Scholarship recipient Daniel Stritzel, St. Louis Metropolitan Taxicab Commission
The IATR established the Norma Reyes Scholarship in 2013 in memory of the late former Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (“BACP”). As an active member of the IATR, an accomplished lawyer, and a public servant, Norma left her mark on the world and her IATR friends and colleagues. The Norma Reyes Scholarship provides a chance for regulators who are new to IATR to participate in the IATR’s annual conference.
This year’s Norma Reyes Scholarship was awarded to Daniel Stritzel, an Enforcement Agent from the St. Louis Metropolitan Taxicab Commission. He has been a vital figure in addressing the legal status of golf carts in St. Louis, engaging in collaborative efforts with the local police department to ensure compliance with existing laws and actively prosecuting cases related to golf cart usage. Moreover, he has been involved in airport planning initiatives, contributing to discussions about the future development and accessibility of the area’s transportation infrastructure. He has also participated in conversations surrounding ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) transportation funding, advocating for resources that support individuals with disabilities. Daniel emphasized several critical points during his acceptance speech, underlining his commitment to enhancing driver awareness regarding human trafficking. He expressed his intention to implement training programs used in King County aimed at educating drivers on identifying and responding to signs of human trafficking, thus contributing to the broader effort to combat this serious issue in the community.
Driver of the Year Award
From left: Matthew Daus (IATR), Peter Hardy (A1A Limo), and Rick Versace (A1A Limo)
Each year, the IATR selects a driver who has demonstrated exceptional performance and embodies the highest standards of professionalism in the industry. This year, Peter Hardy from A1A Limo, nominated by Rick Versace, was honored with the Driver of the Year award for his exceptional commitment to safety and outstanding community service. Peter has consistently maintained a perfect five-star rating and an impeccable driving record, with no accidents or incidents throughout his career with A1A Limo.
7th Annual Bootcamp
Bootcamp Session 101: Taximeter Technology Regulatory Primer
From left: Ben Scott (FLEET Technologies Limited); Don Onwiler (National Council on Weights and Measures); Cregan Newhouse (City of Seattle Consumer Protection Division); and Izzy Aala (Flywheel Technologies Inc.)
The first Bootcamp session this year focused on Taximeters. Izzy Aala, CEO of Flywheel Technologies Inc., led the session, which featured Cregan Newhouse, Manager of the City of Seattle Consumer Protection Division, and Don Onwiler, Executive Director of the National Council on Weights and Measures. Key topics included the evolution of smart meters, their integration with apps, and their impact on the taxi industry. The conference addressed regulatory challenges, technological advancements, and the role of AI in regulatory practices. Experts discussed dynamic pricing, transparency, and the future of meter technology. Challenges in implementing smart meters, such as geofencing and regulatory compliance, were highlighted, along with security concerns like GPS spoofing. The session also covered the transition from traditional to smart meters, emphasizing the need for industry adaptation and collaboration.
Bootcamp Session 102: Artificial Intelligence & Mobility
From left: Doug Bermudez (Miami-Dade County’s Department of Transportation and Public Works); Glenn Cook (EVTansports); Kevin French (iCabbi); Jon Miller (Nexar Inc.); Link Parikh (Rocket Technology, Inc.); Matthew Daus (IATR); Andrew Miller (Paladin Consulting); Sanjay Ranka (University of Florida)
The second Bootcamp session discussed AI's transformative role in industries, focusing on transportation. Andrew Miller, Principal of Paladin Consulting, moderated this session, which featured Doug Bermudez, Chief of the EASY Card Services Division of Miami-Dade County’s Department of Transportation and Public Works, Glenn Cook, Founder & CEO of EVTransports (SafeRydr), Kevin French, CEO – Americas of iCabbi, Jon Miller, Vice President of Enterprise Growth at Nexar Inc., and Link Parikh, Founder & CEO of Rocket Technology, Inc. The session explored AI in mobility, including predictive maintenance, smart scheduling, and autonomous vehicles. They stressed regulatory frameworks and workforce development to mitigate job displacement. AI's potential in fleet management, traffic enforcement, and personalized route planning was also discussed, underscoring its broad impact.
Andrew Miller (Paladin Consulting); Sanjay Ranka (University of Florida)
Andrew Miller, Principal at Paladin Consulting, delivered a keynote on Artificial Intelligence (AI), emphasizing its role in automating white-collar jobs and highlighting its three pillars: Big Code, Big Data, and Big Compute. He discussed AI’s training process through machine learning and shared examples like Waymo and Tesla, showcasing its potential for fleet optimization and traffic automation.
Sanjay Ranka, a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Computer Information Science and Engineering at the University of Florida, discussed using AI and machine learning to optimize traffic management and improve safety at intersections through sensors and digital twins. He highlighted AI’s potential in automated enforcement, congestion management, and public transit, emphasizing edge data processing to address privacy concerns.
International Regulator “Star Trek” & The TLC of the Future
From left: Joanie Lofgren (U.S. Government Accountability Office); Elizabeth Repko (U.S. Government Accountability Office); Daniel Stritzel (St. Louis, Missouri); Rey Cruz (Saskatoon); David Pasternak (Nevada); Rupal Bapat (Chicago); Matthew Daus (New York); Bharathi Kumaran (Singapore); and Michelle Hoang (Seattle)
The International Regulator Spotlight is one of IATR's most popular panels, creatively inspired by Star Trek. This session features "regulatory stars" from across the globe who presented the groundbreaking projects and initiatives underway in their respective jurisdictions. This year’s panel was moderated by Rupal Bapat, Deputy Commissioner, BACP, and featured Rey Cruz, Taxi and Rideshare Manager, City of Saskatoon, Canada; Michelle Hoang, Project Manager, King County, Seattle; Bharathi Kumaran, Deputy Director of Point-to-Point Transport Division, Public Transport Group, Singapore LTA; Joanie Lofgren, Assistant Director, U.S. Government Accountability Office; and David Pasternak, Deputy Commissioner, Nevada Transportation Authority.
Rupal highlighted regulatory principles such as safety, equity, accessibility, knowledge, and sustainability, with Vision Zero training mandatory for chauffeurs. Pedicab regulation and the Open Mobility Foundation's data standardization efforts were also discussed, along with exploring minimum compensation models for drivers.
Rey Cruz provided updates on Canadian regulators' activities in the transportation sector. In Calgary, the city council approved a vehicle-for-hire transitional strategy focusing on safety, accessibility, licensing, and working on modernizing services and promoting an equitable, anti-racist, and inclusive environment. The City of Regina is finalizing new software for electronic applications and encouraging electric vehicle use. Montreal launched the On Demand Mobility Directions Action Plan and developed a Taxi Registry integrated with the city's transit app. Winnipeg is working on an online inspection app and a Centralized Dispatch and Access Transportation Incentives Program. Saskatoon transitioned to electronic applications, addressing temporary license challenges, and is researching the impact of TNCs on the vehicle-for-hire industry.
Michelle Hong discussed King County’s work to combat human trafficking and the importance of training for-hire drivers on human trafficking. Human trafficking victims are frequently transported in for-hire vehicles, making drivers potential witnesses or even participants in trafficking activities. Michelle explained King County’s collaboration with BEST (Businesses Ending Slavery and Trafficking) to develop a free training program tailored for drivers, available online in multiple languages. The training emphasizes that drivers are not obligated to act unless it is safe to do so, and it incorporates feedback from survivors and drivers to ensure relevance and effectiveness. Michelle encouraged other jurisdictions to adopt similar training to help drivers identify and respond to trafficking situations.
Bharati Kumaran discussed Singapore's transport policies and regulatory framework. Being densely populated and small, Singapore focuses on funneling people to mass public transport, with point-to-point transport (taxis and TNCs) as complementary services. The Land Transport Authority manages all transport infrastructure and services, including buses and rail assets. Their Land Transport Master Plan 2040 aims for 20-minute neighborhood towns, a 45-minute city, inclusivity, and sustainability. The authority regulates 86,000 private hire cars and 13,300 taxis, issuing licenses and managing a vehicle quota system to control congestion. Safety measures include criminal record screenings and medical exams for drivers. They have implemented digital vocational licenses and use data for enforcement.
Joanie Lofgren discussed the U.S. Government Accountability Office’s (“GAO”) work for Congress on TNC and taxi oversight, focusing on driver and passenger safety. The GAO identified six federal databases containing incomplete data on assaults due to underreporting and the exclusion of self-employed drivers. They noted that companies like Uber, Lyft, and Hop Skip Drive collect safety data using a taxonomy developed by Reliance. The GAO examined safety features in TNC apps, such as verification codes and location sharing, emphasizing the importance of awareness and usage. GAO also discussed background checks, comparing fingerprint-based and name-based methods, and noted that vehicle markings and decals are standard safety requirements. A passenger survey revealed a gap between awareness and use of safety features, with 60% aware but only 39% using location sharing.
David Pasternak discussed the Nevada Transportation Authority's role in regulating point-to-point transportation, including charter buses, limos, household goods, tour buses, non-emergency medical transfers, vanpools, airport transfers, special services, TNCs, and autonomous vehicles. According to David, Nevada is considering merging his agency with the Nevada Taxicab Authority to streamline operations. David highlighted the driver permitting process, which requires FBI background checks, and the authority's enforcement efforts against illegal transportation, including undercover investigations and vehicle impoundment.
Industry Mobility Data, Trends & Initiatives
From left: Jon Miller (Nexar Inc.); Pierre Bouffort (Blue Systems); Sean Bouffiou (King County, Seattle); and Jarvis Murray (LA DOT)
Jarvis Murray, the Commercial Rideshare and Mobility Administrator for the Los Angeles Department of Transportation, moderated a panel on Industry Mobility Data, Trends & Initiatives. The panel showcased Sean Bouffiou, Administrative Services Manager - Mobility Program for the King County Records and Licensing Services Division, Pierre Bouffort, Head of Product and Mobility/Curb Data Expert for Blue Systems, and Jon Miller, Vice President of Enterprise Growth at Nexar Inc.
John Miller presented Nexar’s work with high-definition (“HD”) maps. Nexar uses data from over 500,000 dashboard cameras to create HD maps, which enhance navigation and support autonomous vehicles by providing real-time road condition data. Nexar's data collection is extensive, second only to Tesla, and they offer insurance products that leverage this data. Miller highlighted the limitations of traditional autonomous vehicle test fleets in data collection and emphasized the importance of crowdsourced solutions for mapping roads in HD. He also talked about the potential of Nexar's technology to reduce insurance costs through driver-scoring programs and AI to detect incidents.
Pierre Bouffort discussed Blue Systems’ role in helping cities like Los Angeles, New York, and London manage mobility and curb data through a platform that collects and sanitizes data from various operators. He emphasized the importance of data standardization using the Mobility Data Specification (“MDS”) and the role of the Open Mobility Foundation (“OMF”) in developing these standards. Pierre highlighted the benefits of standardized data communication for cities and private operators, allowing for easier comparison and collaboration. He also mentioned using the Smart Patrol app for enforcement and the potential for real-time data exchange to improve service and safety.
Sean Bouffiou discussed King County’s implementation of a public-facing data standard for on-demand transportation, known as the General On-Demand Feed Specification (“GOFS”). This standard aims to increase the visibility and integration of local operators, such as taxis and transportation network companies, into the digital transportation marketplace. Sean highlighted the need for interoperability and collaboration between the public and private sectors to create efficient systems that can work together seamlessly. He emphasized the potential benefits of such standards in facilitating partnerships with transit agencies and improving first and last-mile transportation solutions.
Innovative Mobility Partnerships
From left: Nicole Hampton (HopSkipDrive); Matthew Daus (IATR); Izzy Aala (Flywheel Technologies Inc.); Richard Willder (Uber); and Kevin French (iCabbi)
Building on the very popular sessions over the last two years on taxi-TNC partnerships, I moderated a panel on Innovative Mobility Partnerships. The panel featured Izzy Aala, CEO of Flywheel Technologies Inc., Kevin French, CEO of Americas for iCabbi, Nicole Hampton, Director of Legal for HopSkipDrive, and Richard Willder, Global Head of Regulatory Policy at Uber.
To kick off this panel discussion, I presented IATR’s latest report, “Soft Meters & Differentiated Pricing: Steering Taxicabs into the Future.” This comprehensive report delves into the advantages of implementing software-based taximeters, emphasizing how they can revolutionize the taxicab industry. It outlines the myriad benefits these advanced systems offer, such as increased accuracy in fare calculations and enhanced consumer transparency. Additionally, the report examines potential frameworks for taxi rate regulations that can adapt to market changes and consumer needs. By leveraging these innovative technologies, the industry can address current challenges and set a course for sustainable growth. (https://iatr.global/modernizing-the-taximeter/)
Izzy Aala discussed the Flywheel-Uber partnership in San Francisco, which aims to integrate taxi supply with Uber demand. The partnership has led to an increase in new taxi drivers and driver earnings. Izzy emphasized the importance of transparency, as drivers see full fare details before accepting rides. He highlighted the need for regulatory approval to launch partnerships in new cities and addressed regulatory compliance and data-sharing challenges. Aala also mentioned efforts to reduce driver onboarding time and promote virtual queues at airports to benefit drivers.
Kevin French talked about iCabbi’s role in delivering technology solutions for transportation fleets, focusing on automation, optimization, and growth. He discussed iCabbi's partnership with Google to leverage AI and machine learning for fleet efficiency and emphasized collaboration with industry partners like Curb and Flywheel. French showcased a successful public-private partnership in Winnipeg, where iCabbi implemented a centralized dispatch system for wheelchair-accessible vehicles, improving service and trip volume. He also called for industry-wide standards to enhance interoperability and efficiency.
Nicole Hampton discussed HopSkipDrive's commitment to providing safe transportation for children through partnerships with school districts, government agencies, and nonprofits. Founded by three mothers in Los Angeles, HopSkipDrive addresses transportation needs with a care-centered platform emphasizing safety and attentive care. Hampton highlighted the significance of public-private partnerships and regulatory frameworks, advocating for improved safety regulations for companies transporting minors.
Richard Willder highlighted the Uber-taxi partnership's success in integrating taxis into Uber's platform, benefiting drivers with higher earnings and riders with reliable transport options. He emphasized regulatory collaboration to modernize outdated rules and Uber's commitment to expanding taxi partnerships globally, with the potential for multimodal integration to improve transportation efficiency.
The Future of Accessible Transportation
From left: Valerie Lefler (Feonix- Mobility Rising); Ed Bandas (Broda); Judy Shanley (Easter Seals); Katherine Freund (ITN America); Rupal Bapat (Chicago BACP)
This year, we dedicated an entire day to accessible transportation. To kick things off, we started with a panel on the future of accessible transportation moderated by Rupal Bapat, Deputy Commissioner BACP. The panelists were Ed Bandas, National Account Executive of Broda; Katherine Freund, President and CEO of Independent Transportation Network of America; Judy Shanley, National Director of Mobility, Transportation, and Youth Transition for Easterseals; and Valerie Lefler, Executive Director of Feonix - Mobility Rising.
Rupal Bapat showcased all the different programs and progress made by the BACP. She also emphasized the importance of increasing wheelchair-accessible taxis and improving services for people with disabilities.
Ed Bandas, from Broda, discussed the importance of accessibility in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). He emphasized that accessibility should encompass both the physical attributes of transportation devices and their availability. Ed introduced the concept of a "stretcher alternative," a device that fills the gap between traditional wheelchairs and stretchers, allowing for safer and more accessible transport. He also touched on future challenges, such as integrating autonomous and electric vehicles and needing more NEMT providers to support the growing aging population.
Katherine Freund leads ITNA’s efforts to support older adults and people with mobility challenges through technology, research, policy, and training. She highlighted the significant unmet transportation needs, particularly in rural areas, where 40% of counties lack public transportation, and the high costs of private car dependency for 90% of older adults' trips.
Judy Shanley highlighted her work as a national technical assistance provider at Easterseals, focusing on effectively understanding and implementing regulations to improve transportation for individuals with disabilities. She emphasized creating equity and access through initiatives addressing social determinants of health, employment, education, and healthcare. Easterseals collaborated with organizations like the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center and the National Center for Mobility Management.
Valerie Lefler explained that Feonix - Mobility Rising works with partners like Ford Philanthropy and Toyota Motor North America across the United States. They address transportation gaps for various populations, including older adults, individuals with disabilities, refugees, and re-entering citizens. Feonix - Mobility Rising establishes transportation assistance hubs that involve community engagement, technology, staffing, and partnerships with local transportation providers and volunteer drivers. Lefler also discussed a training initiative with the Michigan Department of Transportation, which included hands-on workshops and an online training module to improve disability awareness and accessibility in transportation services.
IATR Model Regulations for Accessible Transportation 2.0
From left: Kevin French (iCabbi), Grant Heather (Winnipeg Parking Authority), Steve Yaffe (Yaffe Mobility Consulting), Jeremy Scalzi (NEMTAC), Carrie Diamond (Easterseals), and Huijun Tan (Consumer Protection Division, Seattle)
Steve Yaffe, Proprietor of Yaffe Mobility Consulting, moderated a special panel on IATR’s Model Regulations for Accessible Transportation 2.0. After an overview of the model regulations, there were breakout sessions to delve into the following topics: (1) Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Accreditation Commission (“NEMTAC”), (2) Public Paratransit Reform, (3) Training & Technology Innovation, and (4) Investing in Accessibility. The groups discussed their assigned topics and later shared their conclusions with the larger group.
TTA President Dan Reid took the helm of the NEMTAC group, where a comprehensive discussion unfolded regarding the growing concerns surrounding the influx of regulations in the NEMT sector. The conversation delved into the challenges these regulations pose for NEMT providers, many of whom expressed that the increasing compliance requirements are becoming a substantial burden on their operations.
Steve Yaffe led the Public Paratransit Reform group with NEMTAC Vice Chair Jeremy Scalzi. During their in-depth discussion, they delved into the pressing issues surrounding insurance policies and funding mechanisms critical for advancing paratransit reform.
Kevin French, CEO of Americas for iCabbi, and Carrie Diamond, Senior Director of Transportation and Mobility for Easterseals, led the Training & Technology Innovation group, which discussed the over-reliance on smartphones and apps and the impact on people who might not have a smartphone or prefer make a phone call instead of using an app. They also stressed the importance of training customer service and drivers to address the needs of people with disabilities.
Lastly, the Investing in Accessibility group was led by Huijun Tan, Wheelchair Accessible Taxi Policy Coordinator at the Seattle Consumer Protection Division, and Grant Heather, Manager of Vehicles for Hire at the Winnipeg Parking Authority. This group highlighted the need to provide targeted incentives to accomplish what they want, such as providing drivers with the things they need to maintain their vehicles on the road.
Innovation & Operational Challenges at Airports – The Future of Ground Transportation Curb Access
From left: Camille Kamga (UTRC); Lionel Morales (Black Car Fund);, Abubaker Azam (SFO); Ira Goldstein (Black Car Fund); Rick Versace (FLA)
Ira Goldstein, Executive Director of the Black Car Fund, moderated this panel on Innovation & Operational Challenges at Airports – The Future of Ground Transportation Curb Access. The panel featured Abubaker Azam, Director of Landside Operations for Airport Services at the San Francisco International Airport, Dr. Camille Kamga, Director of the University Transportation Research Center (“UTRC”) at the City University of New York, and Rick Versace Sr., President of the Florida Limousine Association & National Limousine Association Board Member & Treasurer.
Ira Goldstein highlighted the importance of equitable treatment for for-hire vehicles (“FHVs”) and taxis, particularly regarding curbside access and fees at airports like John F. Kennedy Airport (“JFK”). Goldstein discussed the Black Car Fund's history, driver benefits, and the need to maintain them despite potential revenue challenges. He also emphasized airport enforcement's importance in addressing illegal activities and the need for improved policies. Goldstein also presented survey results and research on airport operations, advocating for equitable treatment and negotiating with the Port Authority for better access for FHVs.
Dr. Camille Kamga presented a study on centralized taxi dispatch at JFK Airport to improve passenger experience by optimizing taxi operations. The study collected data on curbside operations and dispatch systems and conducted stakeholder interviews to reduce passenger wait times and improve driver satisfaction, particularly during peak hours when wait times reached nine minutes. Dr. Kamga proposed using flight data to predict taxi demand and stressed the need to include FHV data for better accuracy while also exploring driver incentives and the limitations of JFK's computerized dispatch system.
Rick Versace discussed the UTRC Limousine Airport Report that I wrote, which revealed limos make up just 12% of airport transportation but account for 75% of airline revenue due to their premium clientele. He emphasized the need for better signage, dedicated curb space, and equitable fee structures to improve the passenger experience for airport limo services. Versace also highlighted the importance of enforcing fair practices and ensuring that limos have designated areas to guarantee premium customers a smooth and efficient experience. The full report is available here: https://www.utrc2.org/publications/limousine-airport-report.
Abubaker (Abu) Azam discussed San Francisco International Airport’s strategies for managing ground transportation and congestion, noting the airport's top rankings in customer service and transportation management. He highlighted challenges like limited land use due to environmental constraints and emphasized the importance of collecting trip fees to offset airline costs and enhance services. Abu also addressed the dominance of Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), efforts to integrate taxis into a single app system, the implementation of a taxi virtual queue, and plans for a new ground transportation center to improve operations.
Sustainability – EVs & Congestion Pricing
From left: Sylvain Tousignant (Montreal Sustainable Mobility Agency); Michele Dottin (IDG); Steve Wright (LPHCA); Lisa Daglian (PCAC- MTA); Pam Cooley (Global Carsharing Association)
Pam Cooley, Executive Director of CSA Global Carsharing Association, moderated a panel on Sustainability—EVs & Congestion Pricing. The panel was honored to include Lisa Daglian, Executive Director of the Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority; Michele Dottin, Organizer at Independent Drivers Guild; Sylvain Tousignant, Director of On-Demand Transport for the City of Montreal Sustainable Mobility Agency; and Steve Wright, Chair of the Licensed Private Hire Car Association (LPHCA).
Cooley emphasized the role of car sharing in reducing personal vehicle use and highlighted successful models in cities like Toronto and Minneapolis. Lisa Daglian discussed the potential benefits of congestion pricing in New York City and the importance of funding public transit improvements. Michelle Dottin raised concerns about the impact of congestion pricing on drivers and small businesses, advocating for equitable treatment. Steve Wright shared London's experience with congestion pricing, noting its limited success in reducing traffic and the need for transparent revenue use. Sylvain presented Montreal's efforts in sustainable mobility, including curb management and mobility hubs, and highlighted the importance of EV infrastructure. The panel also discussed the challenges and opportunities of integrating various transportation modes to create more sustainable urban environments.
Robotaxi Update
From left ro right: Andrew Miller (Paladin Consulting); Matthew Daus (IATR); Richard Wilder (Uber)
Due to the hurricane, some of our panelists from Waymo and Zoox could not make it to the conference, so we pivoted from the planned panel to a fireside chat with myself, Richard Willder, Global Head of Regulatory and Autonomous Policy for Uber, and Andrew Miller, Principal of Paladin Consulting.
I presented IATR’s guiding principles for robotaxis as they are becoming more and more relevant today with all the deployments. I also explained the challenges and opportunities around the deployment of autonomous vehicles (“AVs”) and robotaxis, emphasizing the need to address political and regulatory issues, particularly the importance of collaboration between AV companies and labor groups for workforce development. I also highlighted how politics plays a key role in transportation initiatives, like congestion pricing, and suggested the potential benefit of hiring campaign managers to navigate these challenges.
We discussed the opportunity to integrate AVs into mobility hubs to help address transportation deserts and stressed the necessity of federal funding to move beyond pilot programs. Overall, the importance of engaging stakeholders and finding a balanced approach to regulation and deployment was underscored.
Rich Willder discussed Uber's evolving role in the AV market. Uber has shifted from developing AV technology in-house to becoming a platform for tech developers to deploy and commercialize their vehicles. He highlighted Uber's partnerships with companies like Waymo and Cruise, emphasizing the importance of a hybrid network where AVs operate alongside traditional rideshare drivers. Willder noted the benefits of this approach, such as increased network density and platform reliability. He also addressed the challenges of local control and regulation, advocating for a balanced approach that considers both local concerns and the need for scalable deployment. Additionally, he mentioned the potential for AVs to partner with public transit agencies to solve first-mile/last-mile transportation issues.
Andrew Miller – who is writing a book about robotaxis – discussed the significance of local control and workers' rights. He noted a shift in public sentiment, showing less sympathy for actions that disrupt automation. Andrew emphasized that while AVs may initially cause job turnover, they will eventually create new jobs, such as teleoperation and cleaning roles. He also expressed skepticism about Tesla's proposed robotaxi model, citing potential congestion and insurance issues. Miller supported Uber's hybrid network approach, which offers consumer choice and could partner with public transit for first and last-mile solutions.
The Road to Safety – Vision Zero & Technology Solutions
From left: Matthew Daus (IATR); Cammie Menendez (NIOSH-CDC); Eric Richardson (TSR); David Do (NYC TLC)
Cammie Chaumont Menendez, an Epidemiologist at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, moderated a panel discussion on The Road to Safety—Vision Zero & Technology Solutions. The panel featured David Do, Commissioner & Chair of the New York Taxi & Limousine Commission; Eric Teoh, Director of Statistical Services at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety / Highway Loss Data Institute; and Eric Richardson, Road Advisor at Together for Safer Roads.
Commissioner Do covered the success of Vision Zero in New York City over the past 10 years. He highlighted the program's focus on reducing traffic fatalities through education, enforcement, and engineering. Key initiatives include the Persistent Violator Program, which suspends or revokes licenses for drivers with multiple violations, and the expansion of red-light camera programs to improve road safety. Commissioner Do emphasized the importance of public reporting of unsafe driving and the role of data in enhancing enforcement efforts.
Eric Richardson emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in enhancing road safety. He discussed various vehicle technologies, including Intelligent Speed Assistance and automatic emergency braking, which can significantly reduce traffic accidents. Richardson highlighted the effectiveness of telematics systems in tracking and improving driver behavior, noting their potential for implementation in state-owned vehicles. He also mentioned the Federal Highway Administration's toolkit for Vision Zero, which guides cities of all sizes to implement road safety measures.
Eric Teoh discussed advancements in vehicle safety and the importance of a safe system approach to reduce crash fatalities. He highlighted the progress made over the past 70 years in vehicle safety. Despite these advancements, there has been a 30% increase in crash fatalities since 2014. Teoh emphasized the need for shared responsibility, speed management, and effective countermeasures that are relevant, effective, and widely implemented. He discussed the potential of technologies like automatic emergency braking and autonomous vehicles to address pedestrian fatalities and improve safety. Teoh also introduced the Vision Zero initiative, aiming to reduce fatalities by 30% by 2030, highlighting the need for diverse crash test dummies to represent the population better.
Mobility Shark Tank
From left: Jaws, IATR Shark Mascot, Thomas Bania (Nexocité); Sam Evans (GBM Capital); Jonathan Chaikin (GBM Capital); Angie De La Barrera (Arlington County, Virginia); Valerie Lefler (Feonix - Mobility Rising); Madonna Long (Vet Cycle); Matthew Daus (IATR)
This year’s conference featured IATR’s very first Mobility Shark Tank, where companies presented their ideas to a mix of representatives of regulators, academics, industry veterans, and investors. The sharks were Thomas Bania, Managing Director of Nexocité; Jonathan Chaikin, Co-Founder of GBM Capital; Angie De La Barrera, Principal Planner for Arlington County, Virginia; Sam Evans, Co-Founder of GBM Capital; and Valerie Lefler, Executive Director, Feonix - Mobility Rising. The following contestants presented to the sharks:
Vet Cycle, presented by Madonna Long, aims to manufacture a universal design, ADA-compliant electric pedicab in the United States. Vet Cycles are powered by American electric energy and feature hydraulic disc brakes, LED lights, and weatherproof caskets. The company is exploring various revenue streams, including advertising and package delivery, and is working on marketing strategies and regulatory compliance. (https://vetcycle.com/)
Ono, presented by Renee Rogers, is a software system designed to streamline incident reporting and management for fleet operators. The app addresses inefficiencies in handling motor claims by providing a user-friendly platform for drivers to report incidents accurately and promptly. This reduces costs and enhances fleet operators' data management. (https://onoapp.co/)
Guident, presented by Harald Braun, provides software solutions to enhance the safety of AVs. The company’s remote monitoring and control center platform ensures a human is always in the loop, even when AVs operate without a safety driver. This platform allows remote operators to oversee and control vehicles when necessary, particularly in critical situations. (https://guident.com/)
E-lixr, presented by Sam Payrovi, is building an all-electric water taxi. The service is designed to address transportation challenges in waterfront cities by utilizing waterways as direct conduits for travel. E-lixir is working with the City of Miami to launch a pilot program, with plans to scale up operations next summer. The company also focuses on building marina charging infrastructure and integrating with Uber and Lyft to provide first- and last-mile connectivity. (https://elixr.miami/)
The Sharks engaged each presenter with thoughtful and challenging questions designed to probe deeper into their business models and strategies. They provided constructive feedback highlighting strengths and areas for improvement, demonstrating their keen interest in the contestants' ventures. Overall, the contestants left a positive impression on the Sharks, who appreciated their hard work and innovative ideas. As a follow-up, additional investors will receive copies of the presentations, allowing them to evaluate potential opportunities for collaboration or investment.
From left: Jaws, Valerie Lefler (Feonix - Mobility Rising); Harald Braun (Guident); Matthew Daus (IATR); Renee Rogers (Ono); Angie De La Barrera (Arlington County, Virginia); Sam Payrovi (E-lixir)
Gala Event
This year’s Gala event was a remarkable occasion, held at the stunning Dalmar Hotel, providing a beautiful backdrop for the evening. The highlight of the evening was the live music featuring talented performers and several rocking and dancing regulators who kept everyone entertained late into the night. As the evening unfolded, guests created unforgettable memories, celebrating together in a joyous and vibrant setting.
IATR’s Next Stop, Nashville, Tennessee!
Richard Rooker, 2025 Conference Host Nashville, Tennessee
IATR is excited to announce its 38th annual conference is heading to Music City! We want to thank the City of Nashville and our conference host, Richard Rooker, for their support and commitment.
Several potential host cities applied to host the 2025 conference. While all are great cities and would have been wonderful hosts, the people of IATR have spoken and voted for Nashville as part of our post-conference survey. I want to thank those cities for their compelling applications. We are gratified and thankful for their interest and willingness to host our popular annual conference, which continues to receive high marks and is ‘off-the-charts’ on both the educational and entertainment fronts. We hope these cities will host conferences in years to come, but for now, let’s all get ready for Nashville and take advantage of the early bird registration and sponsorship.
Dates and the host hotel will be announced soon, but until then, we are looking at the end of September or early October this fall. Register now and renew your membership with significant discounts before December 31, 2024.
Nashville, Tennessee, is celebrated for its rich musical heritage, diverse cultural offerings, and thriving innovation ecosystem. Known as the “Music City,” Nashville is home to legendary landmarks like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame, offering a unique blend of history and modernity. This dynamic environment perfectly aligns with IATR’s mission to foster forward-thinking discussions and collaboration within the transportation sector.
By choosing Nashville, IATR underscores its commitment to showcasing cities that embody creativity and progress. The city’s central location and excellent connectivity make it easily accessible to domestic and international attendees. At the same time, its world-class amenities and state-of-the-art convention facilities provide the ideal setting for a global gathering of transportation leaders, regulators, and innovators.
The conference will feature engaging sessions, interactive workshops, and insightful panels focused on emerging trends in transportation technology, policy, and regulation. Participants can also expect numerous networking opportunities designed to foster connections and share best practices. Beyond the conference, attendees will enjoy Nashville’s vibrant culinary scene, lively entertainment venues, and renowned Southern hospitality, creating a memorable and enriching experience for all.
Whether exploring local attractions or delving into industry topics, IATR 2025 in Nashville promises to be a landmark event, advancing the conversation on the future of transportation.
Renew Your IATR Membership Early and Save!
Early-bird membership renewal is available through December 31, 2024, offering significant savings:
Regulator Membership: The early-bird annual fee is $700. Beginning January 1, 2025, the annual fee increases to $1,000.
Associate/Industry Membership: The early-bird annual fee is $900. Beginning January 1, 2025, the annual fee increases to $1,500.
Renewing your membership early also unlocks exclusive Early-Bird Registration discounts for the 2025 Nashville conference, allowing you to register for the event at just $750. Don’t miss this opportunity to save while securing your spot at the premier gathering of transportation leaders.
Discounted Sponsorship Opportunities
Are you looking to highlight your organization at the IATR 2025 Annual Conference? Early sponsorship packages are now available, offering premium exposure to global transportation professionals at discounted rates.
Stay tuned for the official dates and additional details! For updates, visit www.iatr.global, follow us on social media, or join our mailing list by contacting info@iatr.global.