Tempe Leadership class of 2025 imagines the future of transportation

What if, in ten years, autonomous electric shuttles in Tempe’s most congested areas successfully reduce the need for personal car ownership, despite the city’s historical car-centric infrastructure? What if the integration of smart technology in Tempe’s transportation system significantly improves road safety and connectivity, and promotes inclusivity for all users, including pedestrians and cyclists? Or what if we prioritize the development of walkable, carless areas with improved sidewalk (think all-weather moving sidewalks!) and urban shade infrastructure?

These are just some initial ideas of leaders across the city of Tempe, brainstormed during a 40-minute futures thinking primer session at ASU Next Lab. Facilitated by Next Lab director and foresight practitioner Dr. Bea Rodriguez-Fransen, the session focused on introducing the Futures Triangle method to the Tempe Leadership class of 2025, which comprises a diverse group of leaders across the City of Tempe. Together, they decided to ideate on the futures of transportation in their city; they ideated the pulls from the future (what are some specific images of their preferred futures?), weights of the past (what are historical barriers inhibiting the speed and trajectory of change?), and pushes of the present (what are the key trends driving change forward?).

About Tempe Leadership: The mission of Tempe Leadership is to attract, develop, educate, and empower individuals through our adult and youth leadership programs and to make a positive impact in the community through our Tempe Cares and alumni programs. Since 1985, the Tempe Leadership Program, in partnership with the Tempe Chamber of Commerce Foundation, has brought like-minded individuals together in the community to engage and challenge one another, learn more about the ins and outs of Tempe and, most importantly, make a real difference in our community. Tempe Leadership alumni are well represented on local boards and commissions, routinely serve elected office, and volunteer time and energy to the community–together creating lasting legacies.

Interested in boldly imagining the futures of your organization, city, or the world? Contact Next Lab here.