Manny Rodriguez (he/him)

Transportation & Planning Program Manager

City Heights Community Development Corporation

Manny is passionate about transportation, housing, and environmental justice.

After working with planners as a data analyst, Manny joined the City Heights Community Development Corporation as a support staff and in less than a year became a Transportation & Planning Program Manager. In this role he works with government agencies to bring investment into the community and create safer pedestrian & bike infrastructure.

At the same time, Manny was elected to the City of San Diego’s Downtown Community Planning Council. Within a year he became its Chairperson and within another year he transformed the Council into a diverse body that fights for climate goals & Vision Zero. Manny co-founded and is the current Executive Director of RideSD, where he leads grassroots campaigns like compelling the MTS Board to accept credit cards and mobile wallets for fare payments. Manny co-founded @WalknRollSD and creates educational media on street design using San Diego’s own streets. Manny serves on leadership roles in his neighborhood’s Business Improvement District and works with its staff to create a more vibrant community. Furthermore, Manny actively volunteers for organizations like YIMBY, BikeSD, and Families for Safe Streets to advocate for a more livable San Diego.

Manny holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics and a Bachelor of Arts in History. Prior to joining the world of planning, he worked a brief stint in laser optics and semiconductor fabrication labs.

When not volunteering or organizing, Manny enjoys studying math and skateboarding. On the weekends you can find Manny working at his neighborhood bakery.