Blog

Introducing the new Alamo Commutes Transportation Planner

Introduction

Hello Alamo Area residents and transit enthusiasts out there! I am Zack Magallanez, Commute Solutions Planner for the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (AAMPO) and thrilled to be the newest addition to the AAMPO team.

I have a passion for all things transit, biking, and walking, and I am ready to help steer our region in the right direction. Equipped with a zest for adventure and a mind geared towards transit and alternative transportation solutions, I am here to rev up our efforts and make commuting in our ever-growing region a smoother ride for everyone. I am deeply committed to fostering community connections and building relationships throughout the region. I'm driven by the conviction that efficient, people-first transportation planning holds the power to revolutionize how we interact with our surroundings. I am excited to lead our region towards a more sustainable, connected, and efficient transportation network.

Born and raised in the heart of San Antonio, I bring a unique and intimate perspective to our region's transportation challenges and opportunities. Having witnessed firsthand the remarkable growth my beloved city and its surroundings have undergone, I am excited to help drive positive change that resonates with our entire community. My love for the Alamo Area runs deep and I have a profound respect for the rich cultural tapestry and boundless uniqueness that makes our region so special.

When I am not crafting commuter strategies, or launching an Alamo Commutes challenge, you can find me on an early morning or late evening run, working on improving my chess skills, or traveling with my wife, Bianca, and walking our dog, Emerson.

Be sure to stay tuned for more updates and insights. The road ahead looks incredibly promising! Let’s work together in making our region the best for commuters. ¡Adelante!

More About Me

Q: What is your favorite place to walk to in San Antonio?
A: Henry Guerra Library, located in D6 (where we currently live). Who doesn’t love a local library they can walk to?

Q: What is your favorite street in the Alamo Area region?
A: I would have to say Fredericksburg Road in San Antonio mainly because of its history and the potential for it to be a really great street for all users in the future.

Q: What are 3 things you always have on you when you commute?
A: My water bottle, my sunglasses, and my airpods.

Q: What’s your go-to brown bag lunch?
A: Brown bag lunch is another great way to reduce the number of trips I take during the day. You’ll usually catch me with a brown rice bowl with ground turkey, chopped sweet potatoes, slices of avocado, and a little bit of hot sauce. I also keep snacks with me that I eat throughout the day.

Q: Why is the Alamo Commutes Program important to you?
A: First and foremost, I am a transportation nerd and so I love all things transportation. Secondly, I think the Alamo Area is in a great position to be a leader in providing residents with diverse transportation options and reducing our dependence on single-occupancy vehicles (SOVs), which I believe will ultimately lead us to enjoy a better quality of life and a vibrant multimodal environment.

Q: What is your favorite song to listen to on your bike commute?
A: Heart of Glass by Blondie. Something about it makes it a perfect song for commuting on two wheels.

Q: What is your favorite book about transit?
A: Walkable City by Jeff Speck. I recently bought the 10th anniversary edition and added it to my library collection. It’s worth reading!