1.7K
On this episode, we chat with Randy Iwasaki, executive director of the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) on current happenings, the future and what is up with Highway 4. We even discuss driverless cars, flying buses and what it was like to work with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
- 00:38 –Randy explained he got into transportation because of his love of cars.
- 01:53 – Hired by CALTRANS and appointed by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
- 02:45 – What it was like working with Arnold Schwarzenegger on transportation projects.
- 03:54 – Explains how he ended up at the Contra Costa Transportation Authority.
- 05:25 – Highway 4 congestion and how they worked to improve traffic with the expansion, Sand Creek Interchange, I-160 connector and Balfour connector.
- 12:05 – Success of Highway 4 has provided opportunity for speeding, was working with California Highway Patrol (CHP) for enforcement ever considered?
- 13:00 – Interstate 680 & State Route 4 Connector in Concord, overview of this project. How this aims to create more jobs in East Contra Costa.
- 18:04 – Importance of maintenance and what they are doing to maintain the system through Measure J & Measure C funds.
- 19:58 – Impact of Gas Tax had it not passed.
- 21:02 – Randy explains how self-driving cars came about in the county, Credits former County Supervisor Susan Bonilla pushed this at the Concord Naval Weapons Station. This turned into GoMentum Stations.
- 23:12 – Explains partnership with Bishop Ranch in San Ramon. Highlights testing of driverless vehicles where it could increase transit ridership.
- 25:40 – Randy explains what it is like riding in a self-driving vehicle.
- 28:45 – Explains upcoming Mobility Summit on March 8 (Similar to Shark Tank ideas)
- 30:05 – Technology in Transportation: Randy explains they are always looking for technology for self-driving cars, possibly in Concord, Brentwood and city of San Ramon. City of Walnut Creek has a signal program.
- 32:48 – Randy highlights technology they have brought to Contra Costa County such as predictive travel.
- 35:14 – Randy explains from a system standpoint, what are some of the things he wants to bring to Contra Costa County after seeing what else is going on in the world. Explains how buses may be allowed to use shoulder as a lane.
- 38:45 – What excites Randy about the future of transportation in Contra Costa County.
- iTunes Direct Link: Click here
- Google Play Direct Link: Click here
- Spotify Direct Link: Click here
- Stitcher Direct Link: Click here
