We recognize that establishing trust and strong research partnerships takes time. Over the past three years, the EJLP has partnered 20 fellows from different community-based organizations with researchers at the UC Davis. For the 2025 EJLP, we invited former fellows to re-apply in order to continue building relationships with UC Davis researchers and advancing their research projects. This year, we are collaborating with the three EJ Leaders below. 

Ruth Rosas, EJ Leader 2022

This project explores the role of transit tax credits and free fares as tools for promoting equitable, sustainable transportation solutions. Transit tax credits and free fares provide a financial incentive designed to reduce the cost of using public transportation. These measures can help reduce car dependency, as well as benefit non-drivers. By decreasing reliance on personal vehicles, transit tax credits and free fares support a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and local air pollution, positively impacting mobility, public health and climate resilience. Additionally, they offer economic relief to low-income households and historically marginalized communities, who disproportionately bear the burdens of limited transit access, hostile pedestrian infrastructure and environmental inequities. Establishing these incentives as viable policies can shift transportation culture and address systemic barriers, contributing to a more inclusive, accessible transportation landscape nationwide. 

UC Davis mentors: Jesus Barajas and Susie Pike-Cayar

Shane Paul, EJ Leader 2022

This project analyzes the first e-bike rebate programs in New York State. These programs, launching in 2025, are targeted at low-income residents in environmental justice (EJ) communities, focusing on Westchester Rivertowns and Western New York (WNY). Shared Mobility Inc. (SMI) will partner with local community-based organizations (CBOs) to administer the programs, conduct outreach, and ensure equitable access. The UC Davis researcher will play a critical role in designing and analyzing the study. Local CBOs will assist with participant recruitment, survey distribution, and contextualizing findings to the needs of their communities. Together, we will combine operational expertise, academic methodology, and community-centered approaches to answer the primary research question: How can e-bike rebate programs in EJ communities effectively reduce car dependency and increase active transportation?

UC Davis mentor: Dillon Fitch-Polse

Shante Walker, EJ Leader 2024

This project explores the intersection of environmental justice (EJ) and electric vehicle (EV) access in frontline communities, focusing on the barriers and opportunities for sustainable transportation and Infrastructure solutions. The project will employ a mixed-method approach, and engage underserved community members, frontline community organizations, and the UC Davis Electric Vehicle Research Center Institute of Transportation Studies to co-create knowledge and actionable strategies that enhance EV accessibility and promote environmental equity. To further enhance "Empowering Frontline Communities through Electric Mobility " this project will provide four impactful deliverables including the creation of a meaningful video that captures the essence of our research and its impact on environmental justice, and electric mobility.

UC Davis mentor: Scott Hardman