Fwd: [massplanners] Applications Open – Massachusetts Champions Institute

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roberta cameron

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Mar 2, 2026, 11:42:00 AM (12 days ago) Mar 2

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From: Sarah Raposa via groups.io <mansfieldplanner=gmai...@groups.io>
Date: Mon, Mar 2, 2026 at 10:17 AM
Subject: [massplanners] Applications Open – Massachusetts Champions Institute
To: <masspl...@groups.io>

Colleagues,

I wanted to share that applications are now open for the second cohort of the Massachusetts Champions Institute, a joint initiative of Smart Growth America and Transportation for Massachusetts.

I participated in the inaugural cohort last year and found it to be an incredibly worthwhile experience. The program is designed to build partnerships between local officials and community advocates to advance safer, more complete, and more equitable transportation networks. What makes it particularly valuable is the focus on practical implementation - how to move from policy conversations to on-the-ground changes in our communities.

A notable change this year: while the first cohort was limited to elected officials, the program is now also open to planners and other municipal staff, making it a great opportunity for those of us directly involved in planning, design, and implementation work.

This year, the program is specifically seeking pairs of community advocates and local officials to participate together. I love this model, as it helps build the shared understanding and momentum needed to further local implementation of Complete Streets policies and projects.

The program runs from April through July and includes:

Six virtual learning sessions
Two in-person convenings
Training from subject-matter experts and practitioners
Peer exchange with teams from across the Commonwealth
The opportunity to apply for grants of up to $10,000 to support Complete Streets or transportation equity initiatives

The collaborative format was especially helpful in thinking through real local challenges, and I would strongly encourage communities to consider applying.

Applications are due March 31, and questions can be directed to in...@t4ma.org.

If anyone would like to hear more about my experience, I’m happy to connect offline.

Best,
Sarah

Sarah L. Raposa, AICP (she/her/hers)

Director of Planning & Development

Mansfield, MA

sra...@mansfieldma.com | 508.851.6457

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