MetroPlan Orlando was recognized at the 2025 Florida Planning Conference in Daytona Beach this month with the 2025 Best Practice Award of Excellence from the American Planning Association (APA) Florida for their work to enhance transportation safety through the Vision Zero Central Florida Initiative. The award recognizes innovation, leadership, and a passion for building stronger communities across the Sunshine State. VHB has been a strong partner in this initiative, not only working throughout the region to deliver five Vision Zero Action Plans inclusive of Orange County’s future-focused plan, but sharing important insight to provide bicycle safety curriculum for local youth.
“We’re thrilled to see MetroPlan Orlando recognized for the Vision Zero Central Florida project and its impact on transportation safety in the places we call home,” said Katie Shannon, VHB Senior Community Planner.
“Our work together on this project is broad and began with comprehensive policy review and stakeholder engagement from a diverse group including law enforcement, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), bicycling and walking advocacy groups, and residents. The Vision Zero initiative will have a tremendous positive impact to prioritize safety projects over three counties.”
APA Florida provides statewide leadership in the development of sustainable communities by advocating excellence in planning, providing professional development for its members and working to protect and enhance the natural and built environments.
Several VHBers were also featured speakers at the event. Tyler Johnson, AICP, presented “Blueprints for Better Health: Planning for People,” along with panelists from Orlando Health, City of Longwood, and City of Lakeland. This session provided a boots-on-the-ground perspective of how one of Florida’s largest healthcare systems is collaborating with local planners to bring equitable and innovative healthcare to communities.
Katie Shannon presented “Mobile Solar REACH Hub boosts Community Resilience” along with panelists from UCF who specialize in energy innovation and youth education to share how the City of Orlando and the University of Central Florida (UCF) debuted one of the nation’s first sustainable, mobile resiliency hubs. This hub is designed to respond to storms, educate the community on preparedness needs, and enhance equity.
Learn more about how VHB planners are implementing safer strategies for transportation across the U.S.
