Circulate Planning & Policy Company Profile

Background

Overview

Circulate Planning & Policy, formerly known as Circulate San Diego, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing mobility and creating vibrant, healthy neighborhoods across California. Established in 2014 through the merger of WalkSanDiego and Move San Diego, the organization has over 27 years of experience in transportation, housing, and land use policy. In March 2026, the organization rebranded to reflect its expanded influence beyond San Diego County, including impactful planning efforts across Southern California and successful sponsorship of statewide legislation in Sacramento.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Circulate Planning & Policy is to create excellent mobility choices and vibrant, healthy neighborhoods. The organization envisions a region where transportation and land use policies work for everyone, ensuring that the transportation system is safe, convenient, accessible, and affordable for all, particularly disadvantaged populations.

Primary Area of Focus

Circulate Planning & Policy focuses on promoting public transit, safe streets, and sustainable growth. The organization partners with local governments, school districts, private planning firms, and other nonprofits to create planning and community engagement programs. Their work includes Safe Routes to School projects, community workshops, civic engagement activities, pedestrian safety training, and the development of transportation planning documents.

Industry Significance

As a leading nonprofit think tank, Circulate Planning & Policy plays a pivotal role in shaping transportation and land use policies in California. The organization's advocacy and planning efforts have led to significant improvements in mobility, safety, and sustainable development, influencing both local and statewide policies.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Advocacy for Transportation Choices: Promote policies that support diverse transportation options, including public transit, walking, and cycling.

Safe Streets Initiatives: Implement programs aimed at reducing traffic fatalities and injuries, with a focus on vulnerable road users.

Sustainable Growth Promotion: Encourage land use policies that support sustainable development and equitable access to resources.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Transportation Planning: Develop comprehensive transportation plans that integrate various modes of transit to enhance connectivity and efficiency.

Community Engagement: Engage with communities to gather input and build support for transportation and land use projects.

Policy Advocacy: Advocate for legislative measures at local, regional, and state levels that align with the organization's mission.

Key Technologies Utilized

While specific technologies are not detailed in the available sources, Circulate Planning & Policy likely employs data analysis tools, geographic information systems (GIS), and modeling software to inform planning and advocacy efforts.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Urban and Suburban Areas: Focus on improving mobility and safety in both urban centers and suburban communities across California.

Disadvantaged Communities: Prioritize initiatives that address the needs of underserved populations, ensuring equitable access to transportation and resources.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Circulate Planning & Policy operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, relying on a combination of grants, donations, and fee-for-service contracts to fund its initiatives. In 2024, the organization reported total revenues of $1,174,035 and total expenses of $1,121,078, with total assets amounting to $929,627.

Total Funds Raised

Specific details regarding the total funds raised over the organization's history are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors

As a nonprofit entity, Circulate Planning & Policy does not have investors in the traditional sense but receives support from various foundations, government agencies, and individual donors committed to its mission.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds are utilized to support the organization's programs, including transportation planning, community engagement, policy advocacy, and operational expenses.

Pipeline Development

As a nonprofit organization, Circulate Planning & Policy does not have a product pipeline in the traditional sense. However, the organization is involved in several ongoing projects and initiatives aimed at improving mobility and urban planning in California.

Key Projects and Initiatives

Safe Routes to School Projects: Implementing programs to ensure safe travel routes for students.

Community Workshops and Civic Engagement: Conducting workshops and engagement activities to involve the community in planning processes.

Transportation Planning Documents: Developing comprehensive plans to guide transportation and land use decisions.

Target Conditions

The organization's initiatives target urban mobility challenges, traffic safety issues, and the need for sustainable development practices.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

Specific timelines for these projects vary and are typically outlined in individual project plans and reports.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

While specific proprietary technologies are not detailed, Circulate Planning & Policy likely utilizes advanced data analysis and modeling tools to inform its planning and advocacy efforts.

Significant Scientific Methods

Data Analysis: Utilizing data to inform transportation planning and policy decisions.

Community Engagement Strategies: Employing methods to effectively engage with diverse communities and stakeholders.

AI-Driven Capabilities

There is no specific information available regarding the use of AI-driven capabilities within the organization.

Leadership Team

Key Executive Profiles

Colin Parent: CEO and General Counsel. Colin has been with Circulate Planning & Policy since 2017, leading the organization in its mission to promote sustainable transportation and land use policies.

Leadership Changes

In March 2026, the organization rebranded from Circulate San Diego to Circulate Planning & Policy to reflect its expanded reach across California.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for nonprofit organizations focused on transportation planning and policy advocacy is competitive, with numerous entities operating at local, regional, and state levels. Key competitors include organizations like Aikido Of Ventura County, FTR International, and others.

Competitor Analysis

Aikido Of Ventura County: Focuses on martial arts training and community engagement.

FTR International: Specializes in construction and infrastructure projects.

Berniesaundersphotography: Provides photography services.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Circulate Planning & Policy collaborates with local governments, school districts, private planning firms, and other nonprofits to create planning and community engagement programs.

Operational Insights

The organization differentiates itself through its comprehensive approach to transportation planning, community engagement, and policy advocacy, focusing on creating livable, connected communities.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Circulate Planning & Policy continues to expand its influence across California, advocating for policies that promote public transit, safe streets, and sustainable growth. The rebranding to Circulate Planning & Policy reflects this broader mission and commitment to statewide impact.