Ten at the Top is embarking upon an initiative called Connecting Our Future, focused on increasing mobility and connectivity while reducing traffic congestion across the Upstate. The initiative will be kicked off with an event on October 18th at the TD Convention Center. The kickoff event will include breakout sessions focused on various components of connectivity and mobility.

Born from the Shaping Our Future Growth Scenarios Analysis, Connecting Our Future is an effort to create a regional vision and implementable strategies for transportation, mobility, and connectivity in the region. The effort is being supported by the Connecting Our Future Coalition, made up of stakeholders representing various geographical areas and sectors. A full list of current coalition members can be found on the Connecting Our Future website, www.connectingourfutureupstatesc.org.

The initiative will last roughly a year, resulting in a regional vision document and related strategies for reducing congestion, moving people & freight across the region safely, and improving health and quality of life for Upstate residents by reducing emissions. Results of the initiative will be unveiled in Summer 2018.

The event will feature a keynote luncheon presentation by Carla Bailo, assistant vice president for Mobility Research & Business Development at Ohio State University. Carla helps coordinate Ohio State's involvement as the primary research partner for Smart Columbus, a $140 million grant program to transform central Ohio into the nation's premier transportation innovation region.

For additional information about the Connecting Our Future initiative and to purchase tickets for the kickoff event, please visit www.connectingourfutureupstatesc.org.

About Ten at the Top:

Comprised of public, private and civic leaders from across the ten-county Upstate South Carolina Region, Ten at the Top was created to connect and encourage regional collaboration through data-driven research and regular convening of leaders and citizens to address key issues facing the region. Ten at the Top works with regional partners to foster collaboration and strategic planning to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life for Upstate residents both today and as the region continues to grow.  For more information, visit www.tenatthetop.org.