What is The Community Transportation Academy?

The CTA is designed to help bridge the gap between community members and transportation decision makers.

Over 8-10 weeks, participants learn about the basics of transportation planning and decision making, hear from local, regional, and national experts, and dig in on key transportation issues. Participants will also have the opportunity to identify a local transportation problem and propose a solution.

We customize the curriculum for each community/county it is held in. It is designed to help build capacity and engagement by connecting community members with local experts and practitioners, and is an opportunity to build knowledge and skills to solve local problems.

Community members will come away from the academy with the skills and knowledge to advocate for safe and accessible transportation systems that work for everyone.

Who Should Apply to Participate in the Community Transportation Academy?

The CTA is for any community member that wants to be more informed and involved at the local level. Whether you are a transit rider, cyclist, pedestrian, or care about safety; whether you are young or old, this academy is for anyone that cares about safe accessible transportation systems.

What if I have barriers to attending?

We offer a small stipend to those that need it that can be used for child care, transportation, or whatever is needed to make it easier for people to attend.

The academy is a mix of in-person and virtual classes using zoom. The in-person classes will be held at theCentral Community Center at 2008 Forest Ave, Des Moines, IA

Oct. 7 – Dec. 9 – Des Moines, IA Tuesday evenings from 6:30 -8:30 pm. Snacks will be served. If interested, Register Here

This program has been generously funded by General Motors and sponsored by AARP of Iowa. Thanks to our supporters!

Future Academies:

We will be hosting one-two academies in 2026 in the Eastern part of the state. More information to come.

If you would like to bring the CTA to your community, reach out to Kari@1000friendsofiowa.org.