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Buffalo Niagara’s position as a binational gateway continues to shape the future of transportation and logistics across North America. With a metropolitan population of nearly 9 million people across the U.S. and Canada, the region plays a critical role in the movement of goods, services and people.

As federal policy evolves, infrastructure investments accelerate and new transportation technologies emerge, staying informed and connected is essential for business leaders.

Regional transportation and logistics experts came together at the Buffalo Niagara Partnership’s latest Industry Leaders Forum to examine how national policy, local priorities and industry shifts are impacting the sector today – and what comes next.

Federal policy & national transportation trends

Brittney Kohler, Legislative Director of Transportation & Infrastructure Services at the National League of Cities – an organization of city, town and village leaders that are focused on improving the quality of life for their current and future constituents – joined the session virtually to share insight into how decisions in Washington, D.C., are shaping transportation systems nationwide.

Drawing on more than a decade of experience across federal agencies and infrastructure organizations, she highlighted the ongoing implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and its wide-ranging impact across transit, aviation, freight and water systems.

BNP Director of Government Affairs Josh Veronica added context on the current policy environment and its implications for transportation, logistics and cross-border trade. With binational relationships under increased scrutiny and uncertainty, he emphasized the importance of sustained advocacy and engagement to ensure the region’s priorities are represented at all levels of government.

Regional infrastructure & transportation priorities

Rich Fontana, Special Assistant to the Commissioner at the New York State Department of Transportation, provided a regional update on ongoing and upcoming infrastructure initiatives across New York State – including the Route 33 Kensington Expressway project – that support freight mobility, improve connectivity and enhance safety.

Fontana (picture below far right) then joined attendees for small-group discussions, creating space for members to share insights, surface challenges and explore opportunities for collaboration.

Thank you sponsors

The Buffalo Niagara Partnership extends its sincere thanks to its 2026 Industry Leaders Forum sponsors, whose support makes these conversations possible.

Title sponsor
Bank of America and Merrill Lynch

Presenting sponsors
Harris Beach Murtha
National Grid

Supporting sponsors
Catapult Executive Consulting
EnergyMark
LaBella Associates
Verizon

Next Industry Leaders Forum

Sector: Hospitality & Tourism (click here to learn more)
Date: Wednesday, April 22
Time: 8-10 a.m.
Location: BNP @ the cobblestone