Yesterday, we honored 248 Champion property managers and employers for all they have achieved in promoting sustainable transportation in 2019. In the largest Champions year yet, participants have made a considerable mark.
- 296 new programs were implemented
- 10 property management companies with at least four properties enrolled
- 100 companies offering transportation benefits to employees
2019 also proved to be a very eventful year for transportation in Arlington County, with the introduction of tolls on I-395 to the extensive facilities improvements on Metrorail. Champions rose to the occasion and participated in our webinars and took an active role in educating their stakeholders in how public projects could be navigated. This year’s Champions highlight video showcases property managers who have made connectivity a mission for their 2019 goals.
Lessons from the Best
This year, the banquet featured panelists from our Property and Development Services programs (Multi-Family, Commercial, and Hotels) and Employer sector. These Champions shared transportation challenges they encountered that impacted their business and discussed some of the tools the Champions program provides to overcome them.
Jessica Mayo, Regional Manager | Gates Hudson
What sets a multi-family community apart is the initiative that a property manager takes to equip their team with information, even without the latest amenities. When Jessica Mayo was assigned to a large property built in the 1960s (Crystal Towers, 2019 Gold Level Champion) without the same transportation amenities as her other brand-new building, Crystal Flats (2019 Gold Level Champion). Jessica worked with Arlington Transportation Partners (ATP) to ensure both leasing teams could expertly sell residents on the value of non-car options.
Mark Witschorik, Senior Vice President, Asset Management | Jamestown, L.P.
In a renegade move during a season of increased office vacancy, Mark saw the departure of a major tenant from Ballston Exchange (2019 Platinum Level Champion) as an opportunity to create a better offering for remaining tenants. With guidance from ATP, Mark created facilities to ensure that tenants could transition comfortably from their active commutes and be ready for the workday, then followed through to encourage tenants to use their new amenity.
Michael Golembe, Regional Director of Operations, Focused Services & Extended Stay Hotels | Donohoe Hospitality
As a longtime and exemplary Champion, Michael Golembe has taken his commitment to sustainable transportation and his responsibility for his hotel’s bottom line to create a room package at Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Ballston (2019 Platinum Level Champion) that would put green travel right in the hands of guests. Michael partnered with ATP to provide guests with the necessary information to boost their confidence to explore Arlington County by bike and transit.
Lisa Torrance, Senior Human Resources Manager, Benefits & Welfare | LIDL US, LLC
To keep pace in today’s competitive talent market, Lisa implemented telework resources and made transit commutes a priority when parking demand became too overwhelming. Lisa worked with ATP to create policies and programs to build a culture of connectivity with local transportation options at LIDL (2019 Platinum Level Champion).
Special Thanks
We want to thank our sponsors who supported our Banquet honoring transportation leaders in Arlington County.
Elite Sponsor:
Signature Sponsors: JBG Smith | Virginia Hospital Center
Custom Sponsor: FLARE
Patron Sponsors: Ballston BID | The Convention Store
Diving Into 2020
Use the momentum of the Champions banquet to set your own goals for the new year. Whether you’re new to Champions or are a seasoned pro, sign up and your ATP rep will meet with you to set a game plan.
