Alice Bravo, P.E.: Engineering the Future of Miami’s Transportation
In the heart of Miami’s bustling transportation network lies a testament to visionary leadership and engineering excellence: the 95 Express project. Spearheading this transformative initiative was Alice Bravo, P.E., whose innovative planning and unwavering determination redefined urban commuting in South Florida.
Alice Bravo’s career has been a study in how engineering can be a force for societal improvement. Her leadership during the creation, planning, and approval of the 95 Express project between downtown Miami and Golden Glades stands as a beacon of what collaboration and expertise can achieve.
In the mid-2000s, recognizing the need for a bold solution to Miami’s notorious traffic congestion, Bravo took on the challenge of spearheading this groundbreaking project. Phase 1A, encompassing northbound lanes, opened to the public in December 2008, followed by Phase 1B’s southbound lanes in January 2010. The express lanes, featuring dynamic tolling, were designed to manage traffic flow efficiently and encourage ride-sharing and public transit use, offering a model for sustainable urban mobility.
Securing funding for such an ambitious project required not just technical know-how but also strategic advocacy. Bravo led the application effort for a U.S. Department of Transportation federal grant, successfully securing approximately $60 million in funding. This grant was instrumental in turning the vision of 95 Express into reality, providing critical resources to enhance connectivity and mobility for the region.
Under her leadership, the 95 Express lanes have become a cornerstone of Miami’s transportation infrastructure, reducing commute times and fostering economic growth by improving access to the urban core. Her work didn’t just address today’s challenges but laid a foundation for future advancements in transportation.
Alice Bravo’s commitment to excellence extends beyond her technical achievements. She is a champion of collaboration, bringing together local governments, state agencies, and federal partners to align on shared goals. Her ability to navigate complex bureaucratic landscapes while keeping the focus on delivering real-world solutions is a hallmark of her career.
Today, as South Florida continues to grow, the 95 Express lanes stand as a symbol of what visionary leadership can achieve. Alice Bravo, P.E., has left an indelible mark on the region, proving that with innovation, determination, and collaboration, even the most daunting challenges can be transformed into opportunities.