Full Name
Melissa Cerezo
Job Title
Transit-Oriented Communities Manager
Company
Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority
Speaker Bio
Melissa Cerezo, AICP (she/they), is a city planner and grantmaker focused on co-creating vibrant, transit-connected communities through effective city planning and civic engagement. She began her career at the NYC Department of City Planning during the Bloomberg Administration, leading community-based initiatives in West Harlem and the Upper East Side, and improving the city's Privately Owned Public Spaces (POPS).
In 2017, Melissa joined the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), revitalizing the Land Use and Transportation Integration Program. She built partnerships with local cities to enhance transit ridership and complete neighborhoods. She has served on various development and planning-related task forces and technical advisory committees across the county. 
Currently, as the Transit-Oriented Communities (TOC) Manager at VTA, Melissa promotes inclusive growth, community resilience, and sustainability. She collaborates with local agencies, community organizations and various stakeholders to develop people-centered transit-oriented communities that enhance the quality of life for all residents.
Melissa Cerezo