The Regional Plan Association (RPA), an independent, nonprofit civic organization, which develops and supports programs that improve sustainable, economic vitality and the quality of life in the New York-New Jersey-Connecticut metropolitan area, has hired Pete Harrison as its new Connecticut director. He will lead the implementation of and shape RPA programs that will have a positive impact on Connecticut’s infrastructure, environment, economic development and communities.
“For the past few years, we’ve worked alongside Pete and seen firsthand his tremendous skills at research, planning and advocacy,” said Tom Wright, president and CEO of Regional Plan Association. “Pete has demonstrated his passion for working with communities and making positive change through coalitions and grassroots campaigns. We are delighted to have him join RPA to lead our efforts in Connecticut to create communities that are sustainable, equitable, healthy and prosperous.”
Previously, Harrison served as the director of DesegregateCT, a coalition of nonprofits and community members advocating for improved local and state policies that lead to equitable and thriving Connecticut communities. A resident of Simsbury, Connecticut, Harrison has over a decade of experience in tenant organizing and policy research focused on affordable housing and climate solutions and brings with him to RPA comprehensive experience and knowledge in the region and beyond.
“Joining RPA as the director of Connecticut brings my career completely full circle,” said Harrison. “Coming from Connecticut, and leading DesegregateCT, to then joining RPA, is a true honor and opportunity for me to continue the work on housing, transportation and climate that I feel so passionately about in our region, while collaborating with a forward-thinking group of professionals.”
Also, before joining DesegregateCT, Harrison held roles at Data for Progress as a senior housing policy advisor where he led research on the trailblazing 2020 “Homes for All” report. He also co-founded and served as the CEO of homeBody Network and has spent over seven years as an adjunct lecturer at Baruch College. Harrison holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of Holy Cross and a Master’s of Urban Planning degree from Columbia University.
RPA also announced the promotion of Zoe Baldwin as vice president of state programs working to build a strong network and presence in Connecticut and strengthen its work throughout the region.
