Events

banner

2025 West Coast Urban District Forum

Join CDA and IDA in San Francisco for the 2025 West Coast Urban District Forum, March 12-14, 2025 co-hosted by The East Cut Community Benefit District and The Downtown SF Partnership. This year’s theme, Building Blocks for Downtown Renaissance, will focus on how place management organizations’ stewardship, programming, arts and culture, innovation and transformation are key to reimagining our downtowns. The conference program will explore placemaking best practices, innovative retail reinvigoration programs the use of AI in urban place management, and communication initiatives essential for fostering a downtown renaissance.  

Come prepared to network with peers and engage in meaningful dialogue to support the development of downtowns into resilient, dynamic ecosystems. Be inspired by industry experts, visionary strategies, transformative discussions and practical insights that will empower you to drive positive change in your urban district. 

The East Cut Community Benefit District, a nonprofit, property assessment district formed in 2015, serves as the critical steward for San Francisco’s fastest-growing neighborhood. Covering over 40 blocks along the waterfront and South of Market, The East Cut is helping build a sense of community and pride in the city’s first truly mixed-use neighborhood, providing around-the-clock cleaning and safety services as well as managing the neighborhood’s park space. Home to many world-renowned companies and an ever-increasing residential population of all economic tiers, the district ensures a welcoming public realm, programs pop-up and permanent open space, and advocates for and markets the neighborhood to a wide audience. We look forward to seeing you in The East Cut! 

The Downtown SF Partnership (DSFP), a nonprofit community benefit district, is dedicated to revitalizing San Francisco’s downtown core, encompassing the bustling Financial District and historic Jackson Square. Through innovative public–private partnerships, DSFP enhances the area by providing crucial cleaning and safety services, improving public spaces with creative placemaking and fostering a sense of community through public realm activations. In addition to these efforts, DSFP supports local businesses with economic development initiatives, marketing assistance, and programs that drive foot traffic and engagement. The Downtown SF Partnership is committed to creating a vibrant and welcoming environment for everyone. If you’re staying through Monday, March 17, 2025, join Downtown SF’s St. Pat’s on Front for a free, lively celebration featuring Irish food and drink, live performances and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the city. We look forward to your visit! 

Welcome & Keynotes

master-talks

Kevin Adler

master-talks

Katy Birnbaum

master-talks

Sarah Dennis Philips

master-talks

Kimberly Garza

master-talks

Philip A. Ginsburg

master-talks

Dr. Kristina M. Hansen

master-talks

Asm. Matt Haney

master-talks

Senator Scott Wiener

Conference Details

WCUDF25 will be held at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco, located at 5 Embarcadero Ctr, San Francisco, CA 94111 and at various locations throughout The East Cut and Downtown SF districts.  

Get social! What questions will you come ready to ask? Share them on social media #WCUDF25. 

Online registration is now closed for the 2025 West Coast Urban District Forum. You may register on-site, March 12-14, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer B, located at 5 Embarcadero Ctr, San Francisco, CA 94111.  

On-site registration times and rates: 

  • Wednesday, March 12: noon-5 pm 
  • Thursday, March 13: 7:30 am-5:00 pm 
  • Friday, March 14: 8:00 am-12:00 pm 
  • On-site Registration Rate: $475 Member | $575 Nonmember 
  • On-site Registration Rate for Thursday, March 13 only: $350 
  • On-site Registration Rate for Friday, March 14 only: $300 

Daily registration includes access to sessions, meals and/or receptions scheduled for the day of your attendance. Daily registrants are not eligible to attend activities outside their selected day. Session-only registrants are eligible to attend their session only. 

CDA Members: If you are logged into the system and are not able to see the member pricing as noted above, please contact registration@downtown.org for assistance before proceeding with your event registration. 

Cancellation Policy: Written notice of cancellation is required. Cancellations received via email by February 19, 2025, will receive a refund less a $100 processing fee. Cancellations received via email after February 19, 2025, will not be refunded. If a tour cancellation is received via email by February 19, 2025, there will be no penalty. Tour cancellations received via email after February 19, 2025, will not receive a refund. Refunds will be processed approximately 30 days after the event. Please email the cancellation notification to the International Downtown Association at registration@downtown.org. 

Substitutions: Substitutions of complete registrations (including tours and/or workshops) are gladly accepted prior to the event start date. Please submit a written request to registration@downtown.org before Monday, March 10, 2025, at 3 pm ET to complete your substitution. Only one substitution is permitted per original registrant and must be transferred to an individual in your organization. The individual submitting the substitution request is responsible for all financial obligations (any balance due) associated with that substitution. 

Adding a Pre-Conference Tour/Pre-Conference Workshop/Mobile Tour: Pre-conference workshop, pre-conference tours and/or mobile tours sell out quickly. Therefore, it is advisable to add these items at the time of your registration. If you are registering for someone else or a group, please find out their selection prior to registering them. Although each person within the group can purchase a tour after they have been registered, they run the risk of the tour no longer being available. 

Payment Methods: For your convenience, payments may be made by Visa, MasterCard or American Express. Should you need to pay by check, you will not be able to complete registration online. Please email registration@downtown.org for assistance. 

Outstanding Balance: Please note, if you have an outstanding balance for this event and/or tour(s), you will not receive your badge on-site or be allowed to attend tours until payment is received. Please contact registration@downtown.org prior to your arrival on-site to pay your outstanding balance. 

By registering you are agreeing to IDA’s Non-Discrimination, Anti-Harassment and Complaint Policy, Event Agreement and Code of Conduct and IDA Attendee Assumption of Risk, Waiver and Release Form. 

The IDA hotel booking link is now closed for the Hyatt Regency San Francisco (5 Embarcadero Ctr, San Francisco, CA 94111). Based on availability and rates, you may reserve your room online by using this link or by calling the hotel directly at 415-788-1234 and referencing group code G-INTD. Please note special room rate may not be guaranteed. 

About Hyatt Regency San Francisco Hotel 

With its stunning California location, Embarcadero Center is literally at your feet. The hotel’s newly renovated guest rooms offer a sophisticated urban-modernist haven in downtown with superb amenities for a dynamic stay near San Francisco’s Embarcadero, along with other city hot spots such as Ferry Building and Union Square. 

Don’t be Scammed by Third Party Housing Companies 

The official hotel is listed above. Please beware of other companies soliciting hotel room “deals” over the dates of the event. Third party housing companies typically offer a higher rate than the official block rate. These companies’ cancellation policies are often harsh and unforgiving. IDA is not working with any third parties to offer attendees accommodation! If you receive a solicitation and are unsure whether or not it is legitimate, please contact Lul Teklit at Lul@downtown.org. 

Travel 

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is approximately 25-45 minutes (14.8 miles) from Hyatt Regency San Francisco. Taxi/Uber/Lyft is approximately $65 USD one-way, based on time of day. Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) is approximately 40 minutes, and available one-way for $10.55 USD or $13.55 USD, based on time of day. Depart from the SFO International Terminal, take the Antioch (Yellow line) train or Richmond (Red line) to Embarcadero Station, then walk approximately 7-minutes (0.3 miles) to the hotel. 

Oakland International Airport (OAK) is approximately 25-50 minutes from Hyatt Regency San Francisco. Taxi/Uber/Lyft is approximately $65 USD one-way, based on time of day. Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) is approximately 50 minutes, and available one-way for $12 USD, based on time of day. Depart from OAK and take the Coliseum (Beige line), transfer to Daly City (Green line) to Embarcadero Station, then walk approximately 7-minutes (0.3 miles) to the hotel. 

 For more information on the BART, please click here. 

IDA is committed to making our educational sessions accessible to everyone, regardless of ability, and to reasonably accommodating the assistive needs of our members, attendees and partners. We are actively working to increase the accessibility of our offerings. In so doing, we strive to comply with the available standards and guidelines under the Americans with Disabilities Act and related laws to the greatest extent possible. If you are having trouble accessing an IDA offering, or have a question regarding session accessibility features, please contact IDA at registration@downtown.org for assistance. 

By attending the 2025 West Coast Urban District Forum, certified Leaders in Place Management will earn 8 credit hours toward the renewal of their LPM certification. Please visit downtown.org/certification to learn more about becoming certified or recording continuing education units. 

IDA is an AICP credit provider. AICP members can earn Certification Maintenance (CM) credits for sessions. When CM credits are available, they are noted in the program. IDA’s 2025 sessions provide an easy way for AICP certified planners to earn their CM credits. 

Preview the schedule-at-a-glance below (program is subject to change). To see the full description, click on the down arrow next to the title. Filter the program by domain or session type and start curating your personalized experience. Please note, all times listed are Pacific Time and all prices are in USD. 

 For decades, urban place management professionals have acted as leaders of their communities by undertaking the strategic and visionary work of city building. IDA has developed seven official knowledge domains, recognizing the distinct areas of professional practice used to shape vibrant urban districts which anchor the well-being of towns, cities, and regions around the world. Content for IDA’s forums, summits and conferences is organized around this framework. For more information about each domain, visit the Career Center. 

Conference Program

Filter Results Clear PDF
  • Wednesday 12 Mar 2025
  • Thursday 13 Mar 2025
  • Friday 14 Mar 2025

Wednesday 12 Mar 2025

program-list
Price:
  • $60
Meeting Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer B
Domain:
  • Policy and Advocacy
Description:
  • This experience is a unique opportunity for place managers in urban centers affected by organized crime, retail theft, juvenile crime and quality-of-life offenses to visit a California state prison and gain insights into effective rehabilitation and crime reduction from those impacted by the justice system.
  • Engage in breakout sessions with inmates at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center to better understand their rehabilitation process and collaborate on practical solutions. Hear from San Francisco’s Police Department and District Attorney about the latest tools and technologies used to combat urban crime. This unique policy think tank experience will offer a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system and how it impacts individuals.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
  • Please note due to the nature of this event, there will be a security screening to complete prior to and on the day of the tour. A detailed dress code will be provided to those that register along with a Criminal History Security Screening Form to fill out with Name, Date of Birth, Driver’s License or Passport, State and Social Security Number. Registration for this tour will close on January 10, 2025.
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer B
Sponsor:
  • Registration is sponsored by Vibemap
program-list
Price:
  • $60
Meeting Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer B
Domain:
  • Economic Development; Public Space Management and Operations
Description:
  • Experience the rich history and vibrant renaissance of the oldest Japantown in the United States. As you walk through this iconic neighborhood, learn about its deep cultural roots, resilience and the recent revival that keeps Japantown a San Francisco treasure. Explore landmarks like the iconic Peace Plaza, currently undergoing renovations, and marvel at the Ruth Asawa fountains, symbols of community and artistry. Thirteen legacy businesses have stood the test of time, including one approaching its 100th anniversary in March 2025. Don’t miss the famous Godzilla mural, a tribute to Japanese pop culture that still graces the Japan Center East Mall entry way. This tour offers a glimpse into Japantown's past, present and future, highlighting its enduring spirit and thriving small business community.
  • *This tour includes transportation and walking indoors/outdoors; please plan accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection.
program-list
Location:
  • The Banking Hall at Merchants Exchange, 465 California Street, San Francisco, CA
Description:
  • The San Francisco Produce Exchange and Merchants' Exchange merged in 1903, leading to the construction of the iconic building at 465 California Street. Designed by renowned architect Daniel H. Burnham, it housed a magnificent Trading Hall that became the heart of San Francisco's financial district, earning it the moniker "Wall Street of the West". Join us for some drinks and apps in this once known century old Bank of America branch! The reception will be held indoors.
  • The Banking Hall at Merchants Exchange is .05 miles/15-minute walk from the host hotel, Hyatt Regency San Francisco.
Note:
  • All attendees MUST wear their name badges to enter receptions, meal functions, plenary sessions and panels.
Sponsor:
  • Opening Reception sponsored by Uncommon Bridges.

Thursday 13 Mar 2025

program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer B
Sponsor:
  • Registration is sponsored by Vibemap.
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer A
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview Room
Master Talk: When We Walk By:
  • Kevin Adler, Founder-In-Residence, Miracle Messages
  • What do we lose—in ourselves and as a society—when we choose to walk past and ignore people who are unhoused? In this Master Talk, Kevin F. Adler, founder of Miracle Messages, a nonprofit that helps people experiencing homelessness, will discuss his journey into this work, and his latest book, “When We Walk By,” which recasts chronic homelessness as a byproduct of the failure of both our social services systems and our humanity. The book also uses social analyses, economic and political histories, and the real stories of our unhoused neighbors to demonstrate what we stand to gain when we embrace our humanity and move toward evidence-based people-first, community-driven solutions.
Master Talk: Doom Loop Disco: Saving Downtown San Francisco One Party At Time:
  • Katy Birnbaum, Founder and CEO, Into the Streets
  • Where you see an empty street, Katy Birnbaum sees a party waiting to happen. Hear about the earliest days of San Francisco's recovery and practical strategies for bringing community back downtown and into the streets.
Master Talk: Resilient Districts: Planning for Sustainability that Celebrates Place:
  • Kimberly Garza, ASLA, PLA, LEED AP, Founder & Principal, Atlas Lab
  • This talk explores strategies to enhance resiliency in urban districts by addressing challenges like climate adaptation, economic shifts and evolving community needs.
  • Learn how forward-thinking planning and design can create vibrant, sustainable districts that support businesses and enrich the public realm.
Master Talk: Working together: How Parks and Benefit Districts Create Joy and Tackle Big City Challenges :
  • Philip A. Ginsburg, General Manager, San Francisco Recreation and Parks
  • Learn how thoughtful design, collaboration and skateboarders (yes, skateboarders!) transformed a troubled San Francisco plaza into a vibrant hub for fitness, fun and celebration.
Sponsor:
  • Opening Plenary sponsored by Block By Block
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer A
Description:
  • Visit exhibiting sponsors to learn how they can enhance your district!
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Marina Room
Domain:
  • Leadership Development
Description:
  • Join this open discussion forum and share your experiences to gain insight into everyday challenges you are facing. This session will be facilitated by your peers. 
Facilitators:
  • Savlan Hauser, Executive Director, Jack London Improvement District (Oakland CA)
  • Andrew Thomas, LPM, CEO, Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (Santa Monica, CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview B
Domain:
  • Marketing, Communications and Events
Description:
  • AI is everywhere now – maps predict where you are going next, email platforms suggest responses, and you can make an image of anything instantly. As urban place management professionals, we have the opportunity to leverage AI to increase our impact, the efficiency of our organizations and transform our downtowns. At the same time, we need to have conversations internally and amongst ourselves about the challenges and potential pitfalls. Join this open discussion forum and share your experiences to gain insight into the everyday challenges you are facing. This session will be facilitated by your peers.
Facilitators:
  • Bree von Faith, SVP Marketing + Communications, DTLA Alliance (Los Angeles, CA)
  • James Ahumada, Sr. Vice President and Deputy CEO, Downtown Long Beach Alliance (CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview A
Domain:
  • Public Space Management & Operations 
Description:
  • Join this open discussion forum and share your experiences to gain insight into everyday challenges you are facing. This session will be facilitated by your peers. 
Facilitators:
  • Gabriel Yeager, Director Placemaking and Events, DTLA, (Los Angeles, CA)
  • Rich Mongarro, VP Operations, Downtown San Francisco Partnership (CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview Room
Keynote Address by: Dr. Kristina M. Hansen:
  • Empowering Your Teams: Creating a Culture of Well-Being to Enhance Downtowns
  • In the U.S., 48% of nonprofits struggle with burnout, and the nonprofit sector faces higher than average employee turnover rates. The work of building and sustaining a resilient, dynamic downtown can impact the personal resilience of those involved. In this keynote, Dr. Kristina Hansen will shed light on the factors that contribute to workplace burnout and outline actionable steps to foster a culture of wellbeing. The session will provide an overview of tools to build resilience, create healthy work environments, and support personal and collective growth—ultimately enhancing the wellbeing of your downtown communities. A Q&A will follow.
program-list
Price:
  • $60
Meeting Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer B
Domain:
  • Economic Development; Public Space Management and Operations
Description:
  • Visit Fisherman's Wharf to explore an innovative placemaking project revitalizing a previously uninviting stretch of San Francisco's famous tourist district. A partnership between the Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District and Port of San Francisco successfully designed, installed, and maintains new public amenities, a timely project as San Francisco prepares for a multi-billion-dollar sea level rise protection initiative. Explore creative problem-solving tactics and partnership strategies to navigate public realm challenges and operational hurdles while enabling swift implementation. Delve into maritime history and early projects supporting the future of the fishing industry. Learn about this critical resilience project and how the Port is viewing near-term activation as an engagement strategy to complement long-term planning. This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the power of collaboration and community engagement in shaping the future of our waterfront.
  • *This tour includes transportation and walking indoors/outdoors; please plan accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection.
program-list
Price:
  • $25
Meeting Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer B
Domain:
  • Economic Development; Public Space Management and Operations
Description:
  • Join an eye-opening journey through downtown’s evolving spaces, showcasing tactical urbanism projects that drive engagement and community connection. This tour spotlights The Crossing at East Cut, a prime example of adaptive urban placemaking with recreational, retail and cultural amenities; and the Landing at Leidesdorff, a revitalized historic alley transformed into a lively, people-centered space. Each location demonstrates how flexible, "sticky" interventions breathe life into underused spaces, supporting local businesses and inviting diverse, sustained use. Experience firsthand how urban districts respond dynamically to shifting downtown needs through creative design and community-focused planning.
  • *This tour includes walking indoors/outdoors; please plan accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection.
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Marina Room
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
Description:
  • This session highlights the success of a 15-year collaborative safety initiative in San Francisco's Tenderloin neighborhood. Safe Passage is a model program that unites residents, volunteers and program partners to protect the safety of children, families, seniors and pedestrians as they traverse challenged sidewalks. Speakers will share stories, best practices and lessons learned with the goal of sharing community-based solutions for other neighborhoods experiencing community-identified challenges.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the mechanics and operations of building a safety program from scratch.
  • Explore the level of partnership and collaboration necessary to solve challenges.
  • Become inspired by the Tenderloin neighborhood, particularly the residents.
Moderator:
  • Kate Robinson, Executive Director, Tenderloin CBD (San Francisco, CA)
Speakers:
  • Mike Vuong, Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco - Tenderloin Clubhouse, Clubhouse Director (San Francisco, CA)
  • Daniel Manning, Captain of Tenderloin Station, San Francisco Police Department (CA)
  • Eric Rozell, Director of Safe Programs,, Tenderloin CBD (San Francisco, CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview A
Domain:
  • Economic Development
AICP Credit:
  • 1
Description:
  • Increasing housing is a key strategy to reinvigorate downtowns post-Covid, but there are real barriers. What are they and how can we overcome them? How will new residents shape the services your organization is asked to deliver? How can housing spur your downtown or district? Be ready to participate in the conversation with panelists to learn how your peers are addressing challenges and navigating new expectations.
Learning Objectives:
  • Discover barriers to housing development and practical ways to overcome them.
  • Understand the process and the market for mixed-use and small-unit housing.
  • Learn about the changing demands on place management organizations in increasingly residential neighborhoods.
Speakers:
  • Eric Brown, Downtown Manager, City of Eugene (OR)
  • Austin Metoyer, President & CEO, Downtown Long Beach Alliance (CA)
  • Jan Minami, Founder and Principal, AMI Concepts (Sanger, CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Location: Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview B
Domain:
  • Marketing Communications and Events
Description:
  • Explore the power of micro-events, currently reshaping downtown marketing. From sip-and-paint evenings to Wellness Wednesdays, learn how these high-impact, personalized experiences foster community connections and ensure long-lasting engagement. Through real-life case studies, this session will demonstrate how micro-events deliver high ROI on lean budgets. Gain actionable insights to market, plan and execute these events, customizing them through digital technology and personalized storytelling for lasting impact.
Learning Objectives:
  • Design and execute micro-events that align with community needs and boost downtown engagement.
  • Apply digital storytelling techniques to personalize communication and enhance event impact.
  • Leverage the case studies shared to discover new marketing methods that drive community involvement and return on investment.
Moderator:
  • Noah Friedman, CEO & Cofounder, Vibemap (Berkeley, CA)
Speakers:
  • Tamiko Garner, Administrative & Marketing Coordinator, Oakland Central (CA)
  • Jill Linwood, Director of External Affairs, Yerba Buena Partnership (San Francisco, CA)
  • Michael Trimble, Executive Director, Gaslamp Quarter Association (San Diego, CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer A
Description:
  • Visit exhibiting sponsors to learn about solutions!
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview A
Domain:
  • Policy and Advocacy
AICP Credit:
  • 1
Description:
  • This session will show UPMOs how to shift conversations towards policies that will help revitalize downtowns by using ongoing research to surface voter opinion on key issues and build a media and stakeholder visibility and outreach strategy. When executed properly, research becomes a resource that represents shared voter opinion, guides policy conversations and lessens stakeholders' ability to argue for policy positions that do not have widespread support.
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn to design and conduct effective voter and resident research that can be used to create policy narratives.
  • Discover how to build a visibility and outreach strategy that establishes the research as a transparent and objective community resource about voter attitudes and preferences
  • Understand voter opinion from case studies in West Coast cities on issues of homelessness, public safety and affordability and how UPMOs are shifting the conversation.
Moderator:
  • AndrĂ©s Mantilla, Partner, Uncommon Bridges (Seattle, WA)
Speakers:
  • Andrew Thibault, Senior Principal, EMC Research (Seattle, WA)
  • Jon Scholes, President & CEO, Downtown Seattle Association (WA)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview B
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
AICP Credit:
  • 1
Description:
  • Small downtown parks and plazas are microcosms of a city's health. They can end up being the media poster child for negative activity plaguing a city or they can be the bustling nucleus of the city's return to vibrancy. This session will explore how to leverage small urban parks as a hub for showcasing a downtown's renaissance, using examples from San Francisco, Oakland and Seattle.
Learning Objectives:
  • Examine a rubric for assessing an urban park's health and success.
  • Explore ways urban parks can be used to showcase a downtown renaissance.
Moderator:
  • Nina Coveney, Senior Project Manager, Biederman Redevelopment Ventures (San Francisco, CA)
Speakers:
  • Dan Biederman, Founder and President, Biederman Redevelopment Ventures (New York, NY)
  • Andrew Robinson, Executive Director, East Cut CBD (San Francisco, CA)
  • Isaac Abid, Founder and Managing Partner, Lakeside Group, (Oakland, CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Marina Room
Domain:
  • Economic Development
AICP Credit:
  • 1
Description:
  • Vacant to Vibrant is a public-private partnership (PPP) revitalizing downtown San Francisco through community-driven pop-ups. The initiative supports small businesses, artists and cultural organizations in activating vacant storefronts. The program has brought together the public and private sectors to address urban challenges and work collaboratively to envision and build a dynamic future for downtown. This session will offer reflections, lessons learned and guidance on how other cities can replicate the model.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how to build effective public-private partnerships.
  • Deliver technical assistance to drive equity and access to government-funded programs.
  • Generate collective buy-in across diverse stakeholders for unique program models and approaches.
Moderator:
  • Simon Bertrang, Executive Director, SF New Deal (San Francisco, CA)
Speakers:
  • Laurel Arvanitidis, Director of Business Development, San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development (CA)
  • Gregg Sherkin, SVP of Philanthropy and Community Impact, Wells Fargo (Los Angeles, CA)
  • Mohamed Ali Abdelmeguid, Owner, Hungry Crumbs (San Francisco, CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Mosaic - Three Embarcadero Center, Embarcadero Ctr Lobby Level, San Francisco, CA 94111
Description:
  • Mosaic is a newly opened amenity space in the Embarcadero Center building, designed by a global architecture firm, that features coworking spaces, outdoor garden and terrace! The name “Mosaic” reflects the iconic tiles found throughout the building, symbolizing unity and collaboration. Join us for the networking mixer, taking place both indoors and partially outdoors.
  • Mosaic is 0.2 miles/5-minute walk from the host hotel, Hyatt Regency San Francsico. Entry will be off of Sacramento Street.
Note:
  • All attendees MUST wear their name badges to enter receptions, meal functions, plenary sessions and panels.
Sponsor:
  • The Networking Mixer is sponsored by SafeCity Connect

Friday 14 Mar 2025

program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer A and B
Description:
  • Grab your morning coffee and pastries before sessions start. Breakfast service will be available in Bayview Foyer A starting at 8:00 a.m.
Sponsor:
  • Registration is sponsored by Vibemap.
program-list
Meeting Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer B
Description:
  • The Tenderloin neighborhood is internationally known for all the wrong reasons. Join a tour of hope, resilience and collaboration in the most beautifully diverse neighborhood in San Francisco. This tour will include visits to small businesses, parks, a law school campus and the Tenderloin Museum.
  • *This tour includes transportation and walking indoors/outdoors; please plan accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes and sun protection.
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Marina Room
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
AICP Credit:
  • 1
Description:
  • Join this panel discussion on leveraging new Entertainment Zone legislation to energize public spaces and activate downtowns across California. Speakers will outline how cities can adopt municipal rules to manage these spaces, utilize engaging programming and give these zones a brand identity as key destinations. Discover practical strategies to transform underutilized spaces into lively social hubs that enhance community engagement and stimulate local economies.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the Legislative framework to learn about the new legislation enabling municipalities to create and manage entertainment zones, including key rules and regulations necessary for successful implementation.
  • Explore Best Practices to discover successful strategies and programming ideas that cities can adopt to activate public spaces and foster community engagement, enhancing the vibrancy of downtown areas.
  • Gain insights into how to design and brand entertainment zones to create a sense of place, attracting residents and visitors while stimulating local economic growth.
Moderator:
  • Robbie Silver, President & CEO, Downtown SF Partnership (San Francisco, CA)
Speakers:
  • Ben Van Houten, Director of Nightlife Initiatives, San Francisco Mayor's Office of Economic & Workforce Development (CA)
  • Janice Cavaliere, Design Director, Gensler (San Francisco, CA)
  • Andy Chun, Founder, Sidecar Hospitality (San Francisco, CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview B
Domain:
  • Economic Development
AICP Credit:
  • 1
Description:
  • Due to the damage wrought by the pandemic, and/or the lack of a true "center" amidst rising demands for one, many communities are struggling to revive or establish downtown retail districts from a base of what feels like nothing. In this session, a national retail consultant, two practitioners and a developer show how to unearth and tap the latent potential that still exists in urban and suburban settings.
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to discern latent potential for downtown retail that you didn't know existed.
  • Discover what kinds of retail (i.e. categories, formats, operators, etc.) tend to generate buzz and catalyze leasing activity.
  • Explore the specific role downtown organizations and municipalities can (and probably should not) endeavor to play in such efforts.
Moderator:
  • Michael J Berne, President, MJB Consulting (Berkeley/New York, CA/NY)
Speakers:
  • Rena Masten Leddy, LPM, Urban Place Consulting Group, Vice President (Long Beach, CA)
  • Donovan Lazaro, Economic Development Director, City of Fremont (CA)
  • Jeremy Liu, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Creative Development Partners (Oakland, CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview A
Domain:
  • Organizational Management
Description:
  • Creating a strategic plan for your organization enables you to tackle transformative change. But how do you start, and what do you do when “life” happens during the implementation of your plan? In this panel, three practitioners at different stages of strategic plan implementation will share the challenges, opportunities and unexpected results of their planning and implementation processes.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the basic stages of strategic planning and implementation, understanding that strategic planning is not always a linear process.
  • Learn ways place management organizations can optimize their organizations (governance, revenue diversification, staffing, etc.) following a strategic planning process.
  • Explore how districts utilize their strategic plans to respond to challenges and opportunities following completion of the strategic planning process.
Moderator:
  • Chloe Shipp, Associate Vice President, Progressive Urban Management Associates (San Jose, CA)
Speakers:
  • Emilie Cameron, President & CEO, Downtown Spokane Partnership (WA)
  • Austin Metoyer, President & CEO, Downtown Long Beach Alliance (CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer A
Description:
  • Visit exhibiting sponsors to learn how they can enhance your district!
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview A
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
AICP Credit:
  • 1
Description:
  • For the last 3+ years, the place management community has explored ways to address retail vacancies through creative pilot programs. Now we're asking how to turn those programs into retained and viable businesses. The path towards the finish line for success in downtown vibrancy has moved. It takes strong in-house teams and real-world technical assistance for business districts to continue crafting the building blocks in downtown renaissance through retail programs.
Learning Objectives:
  • Explore selecting program participants and prepare creative entrepreneurs for long-term retention.
  • Gain insights into what to consider when expanding current staffing or building out technical assistance capabilities with limited resources.
  • Discover why alternative models of technical assistance improve results.
Moderator:
  • Jennie Kovalcik, Associate | Placemaking & Activation, Public Sphere Projects (Seattle, WA)
Speakers:
  • Alex Stettinski, CEO, San Jose Downtown Association (CA)
  • Chris Guillot, Founder and CEO, Merchant Method (Seattle, WA)
  • Audrey Yeung, Program Manager, MOMENT (San Jose, CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview B
Domain:
  • Economic Development
AICP Credit:
  • 1
Description:
  • To address the challenges faced by downtowns over the last four years, place management organizations are using a variety of funding mechanisms to not only respond to challenges, but to capitalize on opportunities. This session will explore how different types of special taxing districts (PBIDs, DDAs, 501(c)(3)s, etc.) and the organizations that manage them provide consistent financial and programmatic support downtown, plus allow for nimble and creative approaches to revitalization.
Learning Objectives:
  • Gain an understanding of what types of special districts exist in western states, how they are financed, and how downtown management organizations manage and govern them.
  • Explore what types of improvements and services are provided by special districts and downtown management organizations.
  • Discover the advantages and disadvantages of different types of organizations focused on downtown revitalization.
Moderator:
  • Amanda Kannard, Vice President, Progressive Urban Management Associates (Denver, CO)
Speakers:
  • John Caner, CEO, Downtown Berkeley Association (CA)
  • Lou Jimenez, Street Life Manager, San Jose Downtown Association (CA)
  • Sean Hawkins, Executive Director, Loveland Downtown District (CO)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Marina Room
Domain:
  • Leadership Development
Description:
  • In today’s political climate, navigating your community’s landscape is essential. Join us for insights on building productive relationships with local representatives and hear from seasoned professionals who’ve successfully leveraged political connections to enhance their organizations. Discover strategies for diversifying revenue, securing resources and crafting effective messaging. This session includes real-life examples of successes and missteps, concluding with a lively Q&A for attendees to ask questions and share experiences.
Learning Objectives:
  • Gain insider knowledge on effectively engaging with politicians.
  • Learn from real-world case studies that highlight successful and unsuccessful tactics for advocacy and new revenue streams.
  • Participate in interactive discussions that deepen your understanding of political dynamics.
Speakers:
  • Jon Scholes, President & CEO, Downtown Seattle Association (WA)
  • Marisa Rodriguez, CEO, Union Square Alliance (San Francisco, CA)
  • Kathleen Rawson, LPM, President & CEO, The Hollywood Partnership (CA)
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Foyer A
Description:
  • Mingle with exhibiting sponsors to learn about solutions!
program-list
Location:
  • Hyatt Regency San Francisco, Bayview Floor, Bayview Room
Cities in Motion – Policy, Economy & the Future of Downtowns:
  • Join us for an engaging lunchtime Panel Discussion featuring State Senator Scott Wiener, Assemblymember Matt Haney and Sarah Dennis Phillips, as they discuss the critical policies shaping the future of California’s downtowns. This dynamic discussion will explore the intersection of legislation, economic development and urban revitalization, with a focus on housing policy, public safety, workforce development and strategies to support downtown recovery. Learn how state and local leaders are tackling affordability, transportation, economic resilience and the evolving role of urban districts in a post-pandemic world. Whether you’re a policymaker, business leader or urban advocate, this discussion will provide invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities ahead for California’s downtowns.
Moderator:
  • Jason Bryant, CDA’s Legislative Advocate and Principal, Bryant Government Affairs (Sacramento, CA)
Panelists:
  • Senator Scott Wiener, California State Senate, District 11 and Chair of the Senate Budget Committee and Senate Legislative Ethics Committee
  • Assemblymember Matt Haney, 17th Assembly District and Majority Whip, California Assembly
  • Sarah Dennis Philips, Executive Director, City of San Francisco Office of Workforce Development

Interested in Joining CDA? CDA’s membership is diverse, representing hundreds of small businesses and property owners on main streets and in the historic downtowns and business districts. View CDA’s Membership website for more information. 

Interested in Sponsoring?

Align your company with a strong network of placemakers to grow your business. Join us as a Forum sponsor.  
 

Learn More

Interested in Hosting?

If you are interested in hosting a future event, contact Lul Teklit, IDA’s Meeting Planner. 

Learn More

Questions?

For assistance or further information, please contact the IDA registration team.

Learn More
sidebar-card

Join IDA

You’re in a tough, demanding profession. IDA membership provides resources and solutions to help you and your organization grow.

Join Us
sidebar-card

Sponsor

We invite you to highlight your innovative solutions and market alongside IDA as we inspire healthy, resilient city centers.

Learn More