Metropolitan Planning Council

You're invited! Join MPC next Tuesday (May 19) for a conversation on how transit-oriented development can unlock economic growth, enhance walkability, lower transportation costs, and increase ridership across suburban communities. Drawing on lessons from peer regions, we’ll explore what it takes to create vibrant, transit-centered places.

This free in-person event will take place in Chicago and will feature Vicki Davis (Managing Partner at Urban Atlantic), Monte Anderson (President of Options Real Estate Investments Inc.), and Ignacio Montojo (Partner at HR&A Advisors), who will share insights from their experience shaping successful transit-oriented projects in their respective geographies. The discussion will be moderated by MPC Senior Director Audrey Wennink.

RSVP for free today: https://bit.ly/4typVQd

STAFF SPOTLIGHT: 🌟 STEVEN QUISPE 🌟 Get to know MPC Development Director Steven Quispe below!

How long have you been at MPC❓ ➡️ I have been at MPC for 2.5 years.

Which MPC teams or projects do you work on❓ ➡️ I lead the Development team, aka The MPC Dev Divas.

Share any (associate) boards, steering committees, task forces, coalitions, and volunteer roles you take on ❗ ➡️ I previously served as the Chair of the Housing Committee of North River Commission, the community and economic development organization serving Albany Park, Irving Park, and North Park. I regularly participate in Chicago Mobility Collaborative gatherings and am a member of the CTA Rider Lab. I also recently became president of my HOA, lol.

Where do you call home ❓ ➡️ New York City is my childhood home, but Chicago has become my adulthood home. I’ve been living in Chicago for over 12 years now!

What do you love most about our region ❓ ➡️ Chicago is known to be a city of neighborhoods, and I truly appreciate how distinct the neighborhoods can be from one another. I love the strong sense of community and pride each neighborhood has and that of the City overall. There’s a place for everyone. Also, let’s be real, Chicago has one of the most iconic flags.

What's something that most people don't know about you ❓ ➡️ I completed junior year of high school and some college in France, and speak French fluently as a result. That said, despite earning a bachelor’s degree from UChicago, I technically have neither a high school diploma nor GED.
Also, I drove the E train of the NYC Subway in midtown Manhattan as a child.

What keeps you motivated in your work ❓ ➡️ Building and cultivating relationships with MPC stakeholders. Whether they are program partners, donors/funders, members of our key stakeholder groups, or fellow colleagues, I greatly enjoy connecting with people and getting to know their stories.

What's one of your favorite local restaurants or cafes? What do you order there ❓ ➡️ Steak and Egg Sandwich with an iced Café con Leche from Sissy’s Sandwich. Krapow Moo Krob from Chim Thai Cuisine.