GVSA Board Members
Meet The Board
Matt Speth - President
For years, I got everywhere by walking, biking, and riding public transit - not by choice, but because a car wasn't in the budget. Many in the Grand Valley are in the same situation, where active transportation is their only option to get to work, shop for groceries, go to school, visit local businesses, and attend church. Safe streets aren’t a luxury; for some of our neighbors, they're a lifeline. I’m lucky enough to own a car today, but having a car shouldn't be a requirement to participate in our community. As the Grand Valley continues to see rapid growth, our streets also need to work for those who choose not to drive, those who can't, and those who simply can't afford to. My focus is building the organizational foundation to make our efforts more effective and sustainable.
David Lehmann - Vice President
I’m an avid cyclist and walker, and I’ve enjoyed Grand Junction’s mild climate and gentle terrain for over 30 years. I believe it’s important to actively listen to everyone and to try to understand their point of view. My career with BLM was dedicated to collaborating with diverse interests to find solutions to complex environmental/economic problems. With the Grand Valley Streets Alliance we can work together to make Mesa County an even better place to live, for all of us.
Subcommittees: Outreach & Fundraising
Email: dlehmann@bresnan.net
Diana Rooney - Secretary/Treasurer
I have a passion for leaving things in a better place than I found them. The impacts of transportation, population growth, and humankind’s existence on the planet drive an inquisitive need to support our community’s future and seek innovative solutions to support the success of this and future generations to get around town, grow food, and live meaningful lives. I am excited to be part of the group to support those who can’t drive or don’t own cars navigate our community as easily as those with cars can and envision a brighter transportation future for the Grand Valley.
Email:diana.rooney@gmail.com
Olivia Ruiz- Public Relations
While growing up in Denver I found the benefits of public transportation and multi-use paths as being the most economical way of commuting. Having experience and an eye on these elements, it has sparked inspiration for being an involved advocate to our quickly growing community. Now living in the Valley for more than a decade I have seen how much the area is in need for the prioritization of a safe active mobility plan. If it is building bridges between cyclists and pedestrians or better accessibility for all on energy efficient public transit, it key to a better community.
Email: oruiz1126@gmail.com
Benaiah Adams - Board Member
I like bikes, doing bike things, and helping others access or do bike things. I began commuting by bike in the valley in 2019 as a means to reduce my cost of living. Ended up liking it, okay maybe loving it, and the way it allowed me to see my world anew and connected me to where I live. I also saw the many challenges that faced pedestrians and cyclists in the valley. My interest in being an active member of the community and advocating for change in these issues snowballed pretty fast. I became involved with GVSA and a couple other groups in the area to help increase the quality of experience and the access to alternative transportation. Say hi if you see me on the streets or the trail."
Subcommittees: Education & Safety
Email:beliasadams@gmail.com
Randall Reitz - Board Member
My favorite way to get to know a new city is to take a morning run through its streets. The streets of downtown Grand Junction are increasingly accessible for running, walking, and dining. My biggest hope with GVSA is to increase the harmony and accessibility of our streets--ensuring safe and smooth access for driving, walking, running, riding, and other activities that bring joy and health. We've made great progress; let's keep going!
Subcommittees: Canals
Email:reitz.randall@gmail.com
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