Press Release: Living Streets Alliance to Welcome New Executive Director

Tucson, AZ (June 7, 2025) – After nearly 15 years leading the organization, Emily Yetman, Executive Director and founder of the nonprofit organization Living Streets Alliance, has announced that she will be stepping down at the end of August. She will be replaced by staff alumni, Vanessa Cascio. 

Living Streets Alliance (LSA) was founded in 2011 and has been a major leader in the push for safe, sustainable, multi-modal transportation and vibrant public streets in Tucson. During Yetman’s tenure with the organization LSA has seen major successes including the growth and expansion of Cyclovia Tucson, its biannual open streets event; the adoption of a Tucson Complete Streets ordinance; development and implementation of Safe Routes to School programming throughout the city; major expansion of the Bicycle Boulevard and protected bike lane network; and millions in funding secured for biking and walking projects through Prop 407 Tucson Parks & Connections. 

“I couldn’t be more proud of the impact Living Streets Alliance has had to date” says Yetman. “The work of transforming our transportation system is never done. I’m ready to move on and I’m delighted to pass the baton to the next generation of passionate, capable leaders of this movement.” 

“As a Board, we are thrilled to steward the next phase of the work, expertise, and community engagement that Emily and the LSA team built. There is no other organization in Tucson that is more ‘future-facing’ and expert in transportation infrastructure and public transit, while also impacting health and wellness, accessibility, safety, community lifting, climate action, equity, and livability. Not only has Emily and LSA had an immeasurable impact on Tucson, Emily’s mentorship has allowed her legacy to continue through Vanessa Cascio. And there is nothing better than bringing a Tucson native back home with even more knowledge and experience!” says Devon Underwood, LSA Board Development Chair.  

Ms. Cascio’s appointment came out of a months-long, board-led process to ensure an intentional, values-driven, and community-oriented transition of leadership. She brings a wealth of experience in public health, community engagement, public policy, and transportation advocacy, most recently with the national Safe Routes Partnership where she spent the past three years growing and supporting the Safe Routes to School movement across the country. Vanessa’s expertise includes a variety of skills and experience with inclusive community engagement, equity-driven project planning and coordination, and workshop training and facilitation. 

“We are thrilled to have Vanessa return to Living Streets Alliance. In addition to her policy and advocacy skills, Vanessa has roots in our community. She has a desire and passion to create safe, comfortable, and joyful streets for all people to move and thrive,” says Living Streets Alliance Board President Elliot DuMont. Board and staff are heartened by the continued legacy and impact of Emily's leadership, and thrilled to transition to Vanessa's expertise, passion, and connection to continue the fight to make Tucson streets more people centered. 

Living Streets Alliance is a Tucson nonprofit organization working to transform our streets into vibrant public places that bring people together and provide safe, accessible, and attractive transportation options. Learn more about other ways that LSA is promoting healthy, dignified, sustainable transportation in Tucson through outreach, education, and advocacy at www.livingstreetsalliance.org.  

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