Today we’d like to introduce you to Alana Brasier.
Hi Alana, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m a Tampa native currently living in Tampa with my husband Justin and (nearly) two-year-old daughter Charlie. From an early age I’ve had a love of the environment and preserving it for future generations. That focus has led me to where I am today, as the City of Tampa’s first-ever Vision Zero Coordinator – which is a transportation initiative focused on eliminating roadway fatalities by creating a safe, well-connected transportation system that supports multiple modes and a vibrant city. It would seem to be a far jump from my original love and focus to where I am now, but that focus on the environment is still at the heart of what I do.
I studied Environmental Science & Policy at the University of Florida for my Bachelor’s Degree. From there, I went on the receive my Masters in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of South Florida, as their first graduate from that program. I fell in love with urban planning because it is the practical application of the sustainability goals I am so focused on. How we plan and develop our cities has an immense impact on our environment. Creating a city that allows people to take transit, walk, or bike instead of driving in a personal vehicle not only creates a more sustainable city but it also creates a vibrant, dynamic city where people feel safe and secure.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road and I’ve gone through my struggles both personally and professionally, but always having that internal focus in mind has kept me moving forward and got me to where I am today. I work for the city that I love and feel I can my a big impact in. I work with great colleagues and for a Mayor who is both inspirational and visionary.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Throughout my career, my main goal was always to work for the City of Tampa and be able to make a positive impact. Along the way to getting here, I’ve had some great successes. I helped write the federal grant that awarded funds to complete the Tampa Riverwalk, which help catalyze growth and liveliness in our downtown area. It was truly a game-changer for our city and encouraged people to come downtown to walk and bike around.
In my current role, I work within our Mobility department to help prioritize projects that will improve safety and increase multimodal options throughout our city. I also help coordinate the implementation of these various projects, both within our agency and with other agencies. I work on sharing the message of Vision Zero to champion this idea and connect with our community.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Having my internal focus (or compass) that keeps me grounded and persistent in achieving my goals. My job is very focused on giving back to the community and I spend my days working on making our city the greatest city in the world. This job can be thankless at times, but seeing the fruits of my labor go in the ground makes it all worthwhile.
Contact Info:
- Email: alana.brasier@tampagov.net
Image Credits
Greta Green, Kimberly DeFalco
