April 2026 Equity Series - When Transportation Choice Expands, What Becomes Possible?

This presentation will explore the City of Rochester’s and Destination Medical Center’s adopted mode shift goals and discuss how transportation demand management (TDM) can help achieve them. It will provide historical context for how past transportation and land use decisions contributed to a more car-dependent community, and it will examine the economic, health, climate, and access implications of expanding transportation choice. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of TDM as a practical set of tools that can support a more accessible, resilient, and inclusive community, while helping more people reach daily destinations without every trip having to depend on driving and parking. The session will also highlight how the City’s mode shift workplan is focused on planning and policy, and how that work is strengthened through partnership with DMC, including collaboration on projects and programs. OUR PRESENTERS Lauren Jensen Energy & Sustainability Manager, DMC EDA Lauren Jensen has built a career in the field of sustainability with experience in both the nonprofit and local government sectors. Currently at Destination Medical Center (DMC) as their Energy & Sustainability Manager, she works to develop strategies and implementation tactics that connect environmental sustainability goals to economic and social equity outcomes - focusing on buildings, transportation, and public realm. She works to create a culture of sustainability in Rochester, collaborating with a variety of partners to build capacity and develop communities that are truly sustainable for all. Prior to her work at DMC, Lauren served at the City of Rochester’s Sustainability Coordinator, worked in sustainable food systems, stormwater management, and urban forestry. Matt Lynch Mode Shift Coordinator, City of Rochester Matt Lynch is the Mode Shift Coordinator for the City of Rochester within Community Development, where he leads planning and policy work to support the city’s adopted mode shift goals. He works across departments and with community partners, including Destination Medical Center, to help make transportation options such as walking, rolling, biking, transit, and shared trips safer, more practical, and connected. He brings more than eight years of experience in community engagement, coalition building, strategic communications, and cross-sector collaboration. With a professional background in fundraising, marketing, and relationship management, Matt is focused on helping Rochester create a more accessible, resilient, and people-centered transportation system. The Equity Series is free to view. ### About the Equity Alliance Equity Series The Equity Alliance Equity Series is a monthly seminar sponsored by Destination Medical Center and the City of Rochester. The purpose is to introduce diversity, equity, and inclusion best practices, build sustainable DEI community strategies, and build advocacy and allyship within the Rochester community.