Sara joined the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission in 1999. As the Freight Planning Manager, she oversees our multimodal regional freight program, ensuring that freight—as a driver of economic development and method of transportation—is taken into account during the short and long-term planning process. Sara works to integrate rail and barge operations, often partnering closely with government officials, trade associations, advocacy organizations, small businesses, and community groups that have a vested economic interest in our region having a vital and prosperous freight sector. She has both a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and a Master of Urban Planning degree from the University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee.