Station: Chimney Rock National Monument and Tres Rios (US Forest Service & Bureau of Land Management)

Years Served: 2013

Pre-Fellowship Education:

• Master’s in Community and Regional Planning from the University of New Mexico
• Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of New Mexico

Bio: Valerie served as the Chimney Rock National Monument and Tres Rios Bureau of Land Management Transportation Fellow. In this position, she developed a long-term transportation plan through the collaboration of the community and the studying of the current issues. Valerie became obsessed with all things planning after living in Monteverde, Costa Rica, and working among local planners and biologists grappling with significant increases in population, tourism and development that were placing stress on the delicate natural environment and local culture. Prior to the fellowship, Valerie gained extensive experience in research, GIS mapping and analysis, database management, technical writing, outreach and presenting in areas focused on transportation (bike/ped, transit), natural resource management, placemaking and community livability. She is interested in the relationship and balancing act between urban and wild and specifically between transportation and the natural environment. When she isn’t thinking, talking or blogging about planning, you can find her training for her next marathon, biking around town or dreaming up her next adventure.

Current Position (2024): Vision Zero Coordinator and Public Works Strategic Program Manager for the City of Albuquerque

Other Post-Fellowship Education/Job(s):

• Transportation Planner at Mid-Region Council of Governments
• Program Manager at Rio Metro Regional Transit District
• Transportation Planner at the City of Sacramento, California