MURP Graduate Rebecca Webster, AICP, Places Third in APA Student Paper Competition

Recent Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) graduate Rebecca Webster, AICP, placed third in the American Planning Association (APA) Transportation Planning Division Student Paper Competition. This is the third year in a row that a MURP student has placed as a winner in the competition.

Webster poses alongside the APA Transportation Planning Division. Left to right: Mackenzie Love (Vice Chair, Chapter Liaison), Justin Porter (Secretary-Treasurer), Em Hall (Vice Chair, Outreach), Rebecca Webster (MURP alumna), Divya Gandhi (Vice Chair, Programs), Robert McHaney (Division Chair)

Webster’s paper, “Aging On the Move: Examining Micromobility Use Among Adults Aged 65+ in Sarasota, FL”, showed that older adults expressed clear interest in micromobility as a travel option, dispelling the misconception that its reserved for younger, more physically capable individuals. These finding point to the broader need for transportation systems designed with users of all ages and abilities in mind.

“I am very grateful to Dr. Steiner for nominating my paper for this award, as well as for her guidance and support throughout this research,” said Webster. “My study surveyed adults over the age of 65 in Sarasota, FL to better understand their willingness to use micromobility as a mode of transportation. The findings suggest that older adults are open to using micromobility, but safety concerns particularly regarding balance, stability, and infrastructure act as barriers. This research challenges the existing perception that micromobility is a transportation method for young, able-bodied adults and highlights the importance of inclusive transportation planning to support users of all ages and abilities. It is critical that future research on micromobility includes older adults so that this growing population cohort is considered in planning and policymaking decisions to promote transportation accessibility and equity of this emerging public asset.”

Webster currently serves as Acting Development Review Chief Planner for the City of Sarasota, and graduated with her MURP degree in Spring 2026.