Jeff Olson

Jeff Olson is an architect, planner, entrepreneur and author who has been involved in greenways, open space, active living, and alternative mobility projects for more than 30 years. He has had a diverse career with national, international, and local experience in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Jeff was one of the co-founders of Alta Bicycle Share, which launched Citi Bike in New York City and the bikeshare systems in San Francisco, Chicago, Washington DC, Boston, Toronto and other cities. His book, The Third Mode: Towards a Green Society has been enjoyed by audiences around the world. His major projects include the Grand Canyon Greenway, the Empire State Trail, the White House Millennium Trails Program, the Dubai Bicycle/Pedestrian Master Plan, the Bicycle Friendly Favelas Program in Rio de Janeiro and the NW Arkansas Razorback Greenway. Jeff started America’s first university course in bicycle and pedestrian planning at the State University of New York, and is a frequent inspirational speaker at conferences, public meetings and other events. His trailblazing work in the field of active mobility was recognized in 2014 by the Association for Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals with a Lifetime Achievement Award. He is currently a sustainability consultant, co-founder of re:Charge-e, a wireless charging company for electric micromobility, and serves as an advisor to the World Resources Institute. Jeff’s unique vision and leadership ability are important assets to projects ranging from large scale regional plans to site-specific projects and programs. He lives in upstate NY, is a father of three and is an avid skier and bicyclist.