Johanna Cockburn | Director of Transportation
City of Greensboro

Johanna Cockburn is a dynamic and innovative leader in the transportation industry, currently serving as the Director of Transportation for the City of Greensboro. With over 25 years of experience in urban planning, transportation policy, and sustainable mobility solutions, Johanna is dedicated to re-imagining the future of transportation in her community and making Greensboro car optional.

Throughout her career, Johanna has spearheaded numerous initiatives to improve transportation systems, reduce congestion, and enhance accessibility for all residents. Her strategic vision and collaborative approach have led to the successful implementation of multi-modal transportation projects, including bike lanes, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and public transit enhancements. Johanna is a passionate advocate for sustainable transportation practices and is committed to creating more livable and equitable communities through innovative mobility solutions. She is known for her ability to engage stakeholders, build consensus, and drive positive change in complex urban and rural environments. Johanna holds a BA from Cornell College and a MA in Urban and Regional Planning from Minnesota State University. She is a member of the American Planning Association, American Institute of Certified Planners, Women’s Transportation Seminar, and the Institute of Transportation Engineers. She was named a 2015 UNC Civic Fellow and a 2024 Lincoln Vibrant Communities Fellow. In 2024, she received the Philip R. Green, Jr. Award for Distinguished Service from North Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association. Johanna is the immediate Past-President of the North Carolina Chapter of the American Planning Association, and member of the Transportation Research Board’s Standing Committee on Bicycle Transportation, member of the North Carolina Vision Zero Task Force, Vice-Chair of the Piedmont and Coastal NC Clean Cities Coalition, and was appointed by USDOT Secretary Buttigieg to FTA’s Transportation Safety Advisory Committee (TRACS), serving from 2022-2025. She is a past member of TRB’s Standing Committee on Transportation Needs of National Parks and Public Lands (AEP20) and the Greensboro Housing Authority Board.