HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Secretary Yassmin Gramian announced the release of the department’s first Dismantling Systemic Racism and Inequities (DSRI) report, which evaluates PennDOT’s diversity and inclusion efforts, better understanding structural racism in transportation, and evaluating programs and initiatives that could help support equitable transportation in Pennsylvania.

“Race and transportation have long been intertwined, and the nation’s infrastructure investments have impacted generations of people of color,” said Gramian. “It’s our responsibility to be honest about these impacts and take definitive steps toward a transportation system that serves everyone equitably.”

PennDOT’s DSRI report was spearheaded by a working group representing staff from across the department that met weekly to evaluate various measures of equity across PennDOT’s operations and identify areas for improvement.

The DSRI report discussed how PennDOT can achieve greater equity in the areas of contracting, public involvement, community investment, our boards and commissions, and of course, PennDOT’s own internal culture. The report was informed through discussions with community leaders, PennDOT staff who are people of color, and leaders at other state departments of transportation. Additionally, the report reflects the work of an executive working group, which embarked on several initiatives that will have short- and long-term impacts on vulnerable populations and communities of color.

The PennDOT Dismantling Systemic Racism and Inequities report can be viewed here.

To learn more about transportation equity and the department’s efforts in this area, visit PennDOT’s website.