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65th Annual Conference & Tradeshow

The International Downtown Association and host partner, Downtown Partnership of Baltimore, held the 65th Annual Conference & Tradeshow, October 28-30, 2019 in Baltimore, MD. Over 950 inspired leaders shaping cities from around the globe convened to discuss emerging trends in urban place management and walked away with solutions to apply in their respective cities.  The theme brought together the brightest industry minds to discuss what it means to be “Proudly Urban” and how embracing this mindset can benefit districts of all sizes.

Attendees experienced Baltimore’s easily walkable neighborhoods and some of the United States’ first urban renewal projects such as Charles Center and the Inner Harbor, both of which formed the backdrop of the conference. Downtown Baltimore is the region’s densest office district and fastest-growing, most diverse residential neighborhood, where young residents and office tenants are attracted to the city’s affordability, transit connectivity, architecture, and thriving cultural scenes. It’s an exciting time to be #ProudlyUrban.

Interested in presentations? Attendees can access presentations from the 2019 event app. IDA members can access presentations via the online program below. When available, there will be a [Download Presentation] link.

Master Talks

master-talks

Molly Alexander

master-talks

Andrea Batista Schlesinger

master-talks

Albus Brooks

master-talks

Hilton Carter

master-talks

Kate Joncas

master-talks

Annie Milli

master-talks

Scooter Monroe

master-talks

Natasha Moraga

master-talks

John Snook

master-talks

Jeff Speck

Conference Details

The 2019 conference was held at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel located at 202 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 and at various other locations throughout downtown Baltimore.

Downtown Partnership of Baltimore oversees Maryland’s oldest and largest BID with initiatives that increase investment, retain business, solve transportation challenges, improve parks and green space, and create workforce development opportunities. Downtown Baltimore’s easily walkable neighborhoods include a range of architecture, public spaces, dining and cultural attractions, as well as some of the United States’ first urban renewal projects.

Get social! What questions will you come ready to ask? Share them on Twitter using #IDABALT19.

Registration for the 65th Annual Conference & Tradeshow is now closed.

View a full schedule of rates and deadlines.

The full registration fee includes: Plenary Sessions with Master Talks, Breakout Sessions, admission to Tradeshow, receptions (2), refreshment breaks (4), and lunches (2). Pre-conference workshops and tours are available for an additional fee.

The daily registration fee includes: access to one day of Plenary Sessions with Master Talks, Breakout Sessions, admission to the Tradeshow, refreshment breaks (2), and lunch and/or reception scheduled for the day of your attendance. Tours on the day of your attendance are available for an additional fee. Daily registrants are not eligible to attend activities outside their selected day.

The partner/spouse fee includes: receptions (2) and lunches (2). Tours are available for an additional fee for registered partner/spouses. The partner/spouse fee does not include session attendance.

Payment Methods: For your convenience, payments may be made by Visa, MasterCard or American Express.

Cancellation Policy: Written notice of cancellation is required. Cancellations received via email by Thursday, October 3, 2019 will receive a refund less a $100 processing fee. Refunds will be processed approximately 30 days after the event. Cancellations received after Thursday, October 3, 2019 will not be refunded. Please email the cancellation notification to the International Downtown Association by emailing at registration@downtown.org. If you would like to transfer your conference registration to another individual at your organization, please email registration@downtown.org for assistance.

Adding a Pre-Conference Tour, Pre-Conference Workshop or Mobile Workshop: Pre-registration is required for tours and workshops. Visit the registration desk on-site October 27-30, 2019 to check availability and sign-up (there is a fee to attend).

Pre-Conference Tour, Preconference Workshop or Mobile Workshop Cancellation: Tours may be canceled without penalty prior to October 3, 2019.  After October 3, 2019 no refunds will be given on pre-conference tours, pre-conference workshops or mobile workshops. If you are planning to cancel your tour or workshop please email registration@downtown.org.

New Member Pricing: Not already a member of IDA? Receive 33% off your new membership, plus register at the member rate by joining today! Contact Rebecca Bishophall for more information.

Group Pricing: Groups of four or more individuals from the same organization receive an additional 10% off their group registration. Each person being registered within a group must be from the same organization or company to qualify for the group pricing. The registration system will automatically apply the savings during the group registration process. NOTE: A minimum of four individuals must be registered at the same time. If less than four register, you CANNOT register the fourth person at a later date to receive the group pricing. This group pricing only applies to full conference registrants and does not include tour or mobile workshops.

The deadlines have passed for the IDA attendee room blocks at the Baltimore hotels.

About the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel (host hotel)
Comfort and sophistication blend seamlessly at Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, an urban retreat in the heart of the famed Inner Harbor. Guests will feel right at home in the contemporary, intuitively designed rooms and suites, which offer pillowtop bedding, marble bathrooms, ergonomic work areas and 24-hour room service. Additional hotel amenities include a modern fitness center, unbeatable views across the water and mobile check-in. The Inner Harbor location places the best of the city at your doorstep. (202 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21202)

About the Hyatt Regency Baltimore Inner Harbor
Discover a unique blend of urban luxury and local hospitality with stylish rooms and suites that give you a sense of home and tech savvy enhancements that keep you productive. Our convenient location makes it easy to walk to area museums, historic landmarks and attractions like the National Aquarium and Camden Yards. Enjoy what happens when convenience meets charm at Hyatt Regency Baltimore Inner Harbor. (300 Light Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202)

Sheraton Inner Harbor Hotel
Baltimore is an iconic American city, brimming with energy, vitality and hospitality. Get to know this thriving locale and stay at Sheraton Inner Harbor Hotel. Activate your sense of fun by exploring attractions like the Inner Harbor, Camden Yards, National Aquarium, and Federal Hill neighborhoods—all just a quick walk, or cab ride from our hotel. Unwind in one of our 338 pet-friendly rooms and suites, affording you appealing views of the harbor or downtown. (300 South Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21201)

Don’t be Scammed by Third Party Housing Companies
The official hotel and overflow properties (if applicable) are listed above. Please beware of other companies soliciting hotel room “deals” over the dates of the Annual Conference & Tradeshow. Third party housing companies typically offer a higher rate than the official block rate. These company’s cancellation policies are often harsh and unforgiving. IDA is not working with any third parties to offer attendees accommodations! If you receive a solicitation and are unsure whether or not it is legitimate, please contact Lul Teklit at lul@downtown.org.

Air Canada is providing a discount for attendees flying to the 65th Annual Conference & Tradeshow in Baltimore. Use code ” KNE6DK71″ to receive a discount on flights to/from Washington Airports (BWI, DCA and IAD). Please visit Air Canada’s website for booking and enter the promotion code in the search panel. Discount code is valid for travel any day of the week between October 20 and November 6, 2019. Please note, there must be a minimum of ten (10) passengers traveling and booking together to use this code.

Who attends the IDA conference? IDA conferences are designed to meet the needs of professional place managers from downtown organizations, city agencies, municipalities, and private-sector companies. Content is designed for every level of the profession, from executives to associates.

Where is the conference located? The 2019 conference will be held at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel located at 202 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 and at various other locations throughout downtown Baltimore. Please note the hotel front entrance is located off South Street. Select mobile tours and workshops will be held off-site; those location details will be noted in the program.

Are meals included? For each full day of the conference, a morning continental breakfast and lunch will be included. Dinners are not included, but we will provide a locally curated list of dinner options.

Is there a dress code? While there is not a specific dress code for the conference, most attendees choose to dress between business and business casual. Individual events (tours, receptions, etc.) throughout the conference may specify and require a certain dress code. Those events will be noted.

This is my first IDA conference. Can I get a mentor? We have designed a program to match you with a mentor one month prior to attending the IDA Annual Conference & Tradeshow in Baltimore. You will be notified via email by your mentor to set up a time to either talk on the phone or meet at the conference once you arrive in Baltimore. Sign up by checking the box “Match me with a Mentor” during registration. Questions? Email registration@downtown.org.

What is the cancellation policy? Written notice of cancellation is required. Cancellations received via email by October 3, 2019 will receive a refund less a $100 processing fee. Refunds will be processed approximately 30 days after the event. Cancellations received after October 3, 2019 will not be refunded. Please email cancellation notification to IDA by emailing registration@downtown.org.

Is there parking? The entrance for underground parking at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel is off South Street. The cost is $36.00 for self-parking and $46.00 for valet parking.

Will there be wi-fi at the conference? There will be wi-fi available for IDA attendees at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel.

Do you have a map of downtown Baltimore? Please visit the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore’s website for a PDF map and information on navigating downtown.

How do I get to the hotel from the airport? Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is about 8 miles south of the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel. Taxi, Uber and Lyft fares are approximately $20-30 USD one-way. The hotel does not provide shuttle services.

The BWI Marshall Airport Light Rail Station is located immediately outside the lower level of the terminal building, adjacent to Concourse E. The closest stop to the hotel is the Convention Center/Pratt St. Light Rail Station. The fare is $1.90 USD one-way. For schedules, visit www.mta.maryland.gov/light-rail.

Other area airports include Martin State Airport (MTN), approximately 12 miles northwest of the hotel; Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), approximately 45 miles southwest of the hotel; and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), approximately 60 miles southwest of the hotel. Taxis and ridesharing services are available from all airports (fares vary). There is also a MARC train available from Union Station in Washington, DC to downtown Baltimore. Visit their website for more information on schedules and fares.

The Annual Conference and Tradeshow of the International Downtown Association is the signature gathering of inspired leaders who are shaping cities around the globe. This is the premier event for urban place management professionals to discuss industry trends, share best practices and learn the latest tips of the trade. At last year’s conference, attendees continued to advance city building discussions and examine the role of professional place management in shaping prosperous districts.

2018 by the numbers: 9 Master Talks from the likes of the Global Soap Project, LA Dodgers, SA2020, San Diego State University and more. 900+ attendees, 22 mobile workshops and tours, 34 breakout sessions, 15 open space discussions, 50+ diverse and exciting sponsors and exhibitors offering services to enhance cities and help your profession. Travelers came from South Africa, Sweden, Belgium, Ireland, England, Ireland, and throughout North America, with a contingent of more than 200 from Canada alone.

What we heard at #IDASATX18

  • “The IDA Conference is an outstanding opportunity to gain expert knowledge and learn from other communities. It is a ‘must-attend’ event for all urban management professionals interested in how to ensure a bright future for our ever-growing cities.”
  • “This conference was educating, refreshing and inspiring to see the work that’s being done in cities around the world. I encourage staff at varying levels to attend and share what you learned with your colleagues and create a plan of action to produce measurable change in your community.”
  • “Once again, IDA has brought together the innovators that breathe life and excitement into our downtowns.”
  • “If your organization is dealing with an issue, IDA conferences are the way to meet directly with a person who has successfully dealt with that issue.”

Members of the media interested in attending the IDA Annual Conference & Tradeshow are welcome during the event’s Master Talks, breakout sessions and select mobile workshops. Advance RSVPs for credentialed media are required. To obtain credentials, please contact Allison Shashok, Marketing & Communications Manager, at allison@downtown.org. Please identify your outlet and contact information. Media are responsible for arranging their own transportation and lodging during the conference.

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 Annual Conference is organized around this framework. For more information about each domain, visit the Career Center.

Download the IDA Annual Conference & Tradeshow event app from the Google Play or Apple App Store today and start creating your own personalized agenda. Choose activities, take polls, explore speaker bios and learn about district enhancing products and services.

Preview the schedule-at-a-glance below. To see the full description, click on the down arrow next to the title. You can download a PDF of the program here (subject to change). For the most up-to-date information on the agenda, be sure to download the event app.

Conference Program

  • Sunday 27 Oct 2019
  • Monday 28 Oct 2019
  • Tuesday 29 Oct 2019
  • Wednesday 30 Oct 2019

Sunday 27 Oct 2019

program-list

Price:
  • $85
Meeting Location:
  • Union Station Bus Terminal (in Washington, DC), 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
Description:
  • This is a pre-conference optional add-on in Washington, DC. For attendees who wish to add onto their conference, Washington, DC BIDs have come together to offer a selection of tours. It is the responsibility of the attendee to get to Union Station in Washington, DC by 10:30 am. Attendees may choose to fly into DC and take the tour or fly into Baltimore and take the MARC train to DC from Penn Station in Baltimore. All tours will begin at 10:30 am and end at 3 pm, and include lunch and bus transportation within DC.
  • Tour the SWBID and the Capitol Riverfront BID to learn how vision, good planning and public investment leveraged the private redevelopment and transformation of formerly neglected waterfront areas into vibrant neighborhoods with robust mixes of residents, workers and recreational opportunities. Hear how the BIDs who manage these new areas knit together diverse stakeholder groups to guide development through unique park activations and design, events programming, economic development research and attraction and more.
program-list

Price:
  • $85
Meeting Location:
  • Union Station Bus Terminal (in Washington, DC), 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
Description:
  • This is a pre-conference optional add-on in Washington, DC. For attendees who wish to add onto their conference, Washington, DC BIDs have come together to offer a selection of tours. It is the responsibility of the attendee to get to Union Station in Washington, DC by 10:30 am. Attendees may choose to fly into DC and take the tour or fly into Baltimore and take the MARC train to DC from Penn Station in Baltimore. All tours will begin at 10:30 am and end at 3 pm, and include lunch and bus transportation within DC.
  • DC BIDs are at the forefront when it comes to integrating social responsibility into urban place management. First, visit the Capitol Hill BID and learn about the nationally-recognized workforce development program, “Ready, Willing and Working.” Next, visit the DowntownDC BID’s new Downtown Day Services Center, a single-access point for services for people experiencing homelessness. Lastly, visit DowntownDC’s operations center, where visitors will learn about the organization’s workforce and professional development efforts for their 80+ ambassadors.
program-list

Price:
  • $85
Meeting Location:
  • Union Station Bus Terminal (in Washington, DC), 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
Domain:
  • Economic Development
Description :
  • This is a pre-conference optional add-on in Washington, DC. For attendees who wish to add onto their conference, Washington, DC BIDs have come together to offer a selection of tours. It is the responsibility of the attendee to get to Union Station in Washington, DC by 10:30 am. Attendees may choose to fly into DC and take the tour or fly into Baltimore and take the MARC train to DC from Penn Station in Baltimore. All tours will begin at 10:30 am and end at 3 pm, and include lunch and bus transportation within DC.
  • Tour rain gardens, curated public art, heritage trails, neighborhood historic districts and more to see how vibrant and authentic places were created in Mount Vernon Triangle, Golden Triangle and Adams Morgan. This tour will explore how three unique neighborhood BIDs in DC have incorporated innovative design and art rooted in history and culture to successfully engage, support and grow the local community while creating a strong sense of place.
program-list

Price:
  • $85
Meeting Location:
  • Union Station Bus Terminal (in Washington, DC), 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
Description:
  • This is a pre-conference optional add-on in Washington, DC. For attendees who wish to add onto their conference, Washington, DC BIDs have come together to offer a selection of tours. It is the responsibility of the attendee to get to Union Station in Washington, DC by 10:30 am. Attendees may choose to fly into DC and take the tour or fly into Baltimore and take the MARC train to DC from Penn Station in Baltimore. All tours will begin at 10:30 am and end at 3 pm, and include lunch and bus transportation within DC.
  • Visit the Georgetown, Downtown DC and NoMa BIDs to learn how these organizations successfully navigate and nurture federal and local partnerships to create people-centered parks in some of the densest areas of the District. Learn about the role that these three DC BIDs have played in remaking — and in some cases creating — new parks in their districts. Explore the challenges and opportunities each has faced to design and manage downtown park spaces that are inclusive, welcoming and activated.
program-list
Locations:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium, 202 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Sponsor:
  • Registration sponsored by MIG 

Monday 28 Oct 2019

program-list
Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium, 202 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Sponsor:
  • Registration sponsored by MIG 
program-list
Price:
  • $150
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Description :
  • Opened in 1971, Rocky Point Golf Course is set in reserved natural wetlands, offering some of the prettiest views in the Baltimore area. While the length at Rocky Point is only 6,650 yards, the architect added some deception and difficulty to the golf course, and with its many elevation changes, plays longer than its posted yardage. Par at Rocky Point is set at 72, with a fairly open front nine and a back nine that is more tree lined and high-lighted by the three par 5’s. This beautiful course sits upon the Chesapeake Bay. If you’re lucky, you will enjoy the sightings of bald eagles for a true Baltimore star spangled experience.
program-list

Price:
  • $75
Location:
  • Maryland B
Domain:
  • Economic Development
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 3
Description:
  • Today, downtown and urban district professionals need clear and concise data to strategically inform management and investment decisions. This workshop begins with a baseline understanding of the kinds of data that can be useful for understanding the local market, including how to retrieve the data and how to supplement the data with local knowledge. Structured as a practicum, participants will then work in small groups to apply the methodologies and analyses to build a comprehensive district profile in the face of three downtown scenarios. Participants will gain the analytical and creative skills to select and visualize the best data to make the right case.
Presenter:
  • Nur Asri, AICP, Senior Research Strategist, Streetsense, New York, NY
program-list
Price:
  • $75
Location:
  • Maryland A
Domain:
  • Marketing, Communications and Events
Description:
  • Many marketing urban place management professionals struggle with measuring quantifiable results for their efforts and reporting back to superiors and stakeholders the value of what we do. Following up on last year’s successful and informative Pre-Conference Workshop in SATX – Bright Brothers Strategy Group co-founders David Romako and Josh Yeager take things to the next level in an educational session for every downtown with a story to tell. If you missed last year’s session on defining the Customer Journey – no worries. This workshop will briefly re-cap the process of identifying meaningful touchpoints and communications pieces that make sense for your target constituents, and explore the KPI’s, metrics and means of measuring the results of your efforts with campaigns, activations, events and interventions.
Presenters:
  • David Romako, Co-Founder, Bright Brothers Strategy Group, Phoenix, AZ
  • Josh Yeager, Co-Founder, Bright Brothers Strategy Group, Philadelphia, PA
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($35)
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
Description :
  • Mount Vernon, a National Historic Landmark District, is the cultural heart of Baltimore. This neighborhood was once the home of the city’s most wealthy families with brownstones, office buildings and museums designed in architectural styles ranging from Federal, Greek Revival, Italianate, Gothic Revival and Queen Anne. Many of this mixed-use community’s buildings have undergone significant renovations and restorations, preserving the past while providing modern amenities. Highlights will include the Enoch Pratt Free Library’s Central branch $115 million renovation, Washington Monument restoration, the conversions of a former YMCA and an apartment-hotel into boutique hotels, and the renovation of a former mansion into modern shared office space. *This is a walking tour; please plan accordingly.
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($35)
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
Description:
  • Many historic mills in Baltimore’s Jones Falls Valley are enjoying a renaissance as a series of mixed-use redevelopment projects have transformed these largely under-utilized properties. They are now attractive hubs for high-quality housing, office space, and restaurants, returning the mill complexes to their historic position as economic hubs for the community. The tour will explore how historic preservation, adaptive reuse, transit-oriented development, and climate resiliency creates smart growth for aging industrial cities. *This tour includes light rail and walking; please plan accordingly.
program-list
Price:
  • $75
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Economic Development
Description :
  • Downtown’s restaurateurs are torchbearers for creative and diverse cuisine, the best of which are housed in food markets around the city. This culinary adventure will tour Baltimore's best food halls. Explore the different management models of the city-owned Broadway Market in Historic Fells Point and Cross Street Market in Federal Hill, and the privately-owned R. House in Remington and Mount Vernon Market Place at the intersection of the Bromo District and Mount Vernon. The tour will be as educational as it is delicious, with presentations from developers, insights from vendors and community partners, and plenty of amazing food.
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($60)
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Economic Development
Description:
  • The Baltimore Main Streets program is an approach to neighborhood revitalization by providing customized support and public resources for each district in order to attract new businesses and jobs to the neighborhoods. Tour two of our Baltimore's best and brightest in Downtown neighborhoods. Fells Point Main Street’s cobblestone streets are lined with restaurants, boutiques, and the new Sagamore Pendry Hotel. Federal Hill Main Street- uniquely located near Baltimore’s most iconic park- is a unique mix of retail and residential and boasts some of the best architecture in the city. Hear from the Main Streets’ Directors, owners of anchor institutions, and board members in each neighborhood.
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($75)
Location:
  • Maryland A
Domain:
  • Leadership Development
Description:
  • This highly participatory workshop for senior executives (those in the C-suite, senior directors, high level administrators, etc.) will introduce attendees to a new framework for using leadership communication to work up, down, and across organizations. The workshop provides a snapshot of a six session, field-tested professional development series that is being embedded and scaled across corporate, nonprofit, government, and other settings both nationally and internationally. The framework draws from and applies the most current, executive-level theory and practices from the fields of leadership, management, and communication, leaving participants with a host of actions that can be applied immediately in their work.
Presenter:
  • Don Waisanen, Ph.D., Founder and President, Communication Upward, New York, NY
program-list
Price:
  • Free
Location:
  • Maryland B
Description:
  • Learn how to teach small business owners about Google My Business, a free tool for local businesses who want to connect with customers on Google Search and Maps. We'll also share information on how to become a local partner with Google and gain access to free resources and workshop materials to help your community grow and thrive online.
Presenter:
  • Randi Penfil, Trainer, Grow with Google Partner Program
program-list
Price:
  • $50
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
Description:
  • Port Covington is a 235-acre redevelopment project located on Baltimore City’s prime waterfront. As one of the largest urban revitalization efforts in the United States, the neighborhood of Port Covington will have a fundamental and far-reaching impact on Baltimore’s future. At completion, this transformative project will include up to 18 million square feet of new, mixed-use development; 2.5 miles of restored waterfront; and 40 acres of parks and green space. The Port Covington redevelopment is expected to generate fresh opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship for Baltimore City residents and its local workforce. Port Covington is adjacent to I-95, the East Coast’s most traveled highway, providing convenient and efficient commuting and travel times to and from the neighborhood. In addition, the proximity to I-95 offers visibility and accessibility to 42 million cars passing by the site each year. When completed, Port Covington will be a vibrant world-class destination and engine for economic growth.
program-list
Price:
  • $60
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
Description:
  • See how a planned community between Baltimore and Washington, DC is reigniting its utopian roots and creating a mixed-use hub for culture and commerce. Founded in the late-1960’s, Columbia was envisioned to be a new kind of city – founded on the ideals of racial and economic diversity where nature and built environment exist in harmony. In 2010, a new 30-year downtown plan was enacted to develop 391 acres of Downtown Columbia with 14 million square feet of new construction including 4.3 million square feet of office space and 1.25 million square feet of retail. Explore how Downtown Columbia Partnership is working with Downtown Columbia Arts and Culture Commission, The Howard Hughes Corporation, and local government to develop an exceptional business, residential, retail, and cultural destination.
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($35)
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
Description:
  • Baltimore City has a rich history in historic preservation. The city’s Commission for Historic and Architectural Preservation (CHAP) helps preserve and revitalize neighborhoods, celebrates city history, and promotes historic preservation as a proven economic driver for Baltimore City. On this walking tour led by the CHAP leaders, participants will learn how CHAP and the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore use history to enhance Downtown neighborhoods. Specific topics that will be covered include building preservation, landmark designations, tax credits, and urban renewal plans. *This is a walking tour; please plan accordingly.
program-list
Price:
  • Free
Location:
  • Maryland B
Description:
  • Learn to provide small business owners with an understanding of how Google Search helps customers find their businesses online. We’ll discuss topics related to Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Online advertising. We'll also share information on how to become a local partner with Google and gain access to free resources and workshop materials to help your community grow and thrive online.
Presenter:
  • Randi Penfil, Trainer, Grow with Google Partner Program
program-list
Location:
  • Tradeshow, Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium & Baltimore Ballroom
program-list
Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium
program-list
Location:
  • Maryland Ballroom DC
Master Talk Speakers:
  • Hilton Carter, Plant/Interior Stylist
  • Annie Milli, Executive Director, Live Baltimore
  • Scooter Monroe, Vice President and Head of Office Leasing, Weller Development Company
program-list
Location:
  • Watertable Ballroom
Description:
  • This reception, designed for new IDA members or first-time conference attendees, is a great way to network with other newcomers. Seasoned IDA members and staff will be available to answer any questions about the conference or IDA in general. Advance ticket required.
Get matched with a Mentor:
  • Is this your first time attending an IDA conference? We have designed the IDA Conference Attendee Mentor Program to match you with a mentor one month prior to attending the IDA Annual Conference & Tradeshow in Baltimore, Maryland. You will be notified via email by your mentor to set up a time to either talk on the phone or meet at the conference once you arrive in Baltimore. Sign up by checking the box “Match me with a Mentor” during the registration process. Questions? Email registration@downtown.org.
Sponsor:
  • Newcomers Reception sponsored by CUBE84
program-list
Location:
  • The Tunnel at Preston Gardens, E. Pleasant St. and Saint Paul Street
Description:
  • Celebrate the opening of the 65th Annual Conference & Tradeshow with a party in The Tunnel at Preston Gardens. More like a street festival, this event will feature local restauranteurs, regional brews and live music. The location is a tiered park, originally conceived by Frederick Law Olmstead in 1905 and designed by architect Thomas Hastings, that was recently restored by the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore. Its serpentine wall, fountains and strolling paths are now the centerpiece of an increasingly residential section in Baltimore’s high-rise business district. Among placemaking initiatives in the park, DPOB installed programmable LED lights in an adjacent tunnel where, each year, they shut down traffic for a public party. That experience will be replicated for the opening and you won’t want to miss it! After the reception, it’s an easy walk to the Mt. Vernon neighborhood, one of Baltimore’s best architectural and culinary destinations.
Transportation:
  • The Tunnel at Preston Gardens is just a short 11 minute (0.5 miles) walk from the host hotel. For those that require assistance a limited number of shuttles will be available beginning at 6:00 p.m., departing from the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel front drive (off the South Street entrance). Shuttles will run on a continuous loop until 9:00 p.m., dropping off at The Tunnel at the intersection of East Pleasant Street and Saint Paul Street and returning to the hotel.

Tuesday 29 Oct 2019

program-list
Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium, 202 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Sponsor :
  • Registration sponsored by MIG 
program-list
Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($60)
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
Description:
  • Baltimore’s third designated arts district, the Bromo District, sits adjacent to the Central Business District, and features some of the city’s artistic jewels. We’ll visit some of this area's success stories- galleries and theaters that have thrived thanks to Façade Improvement grants, public/private partnerships, and discuss ongoing and future developments that are reinvigorating the neighborhood. *This workshop includes walking; please plan accordingly.
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($35)
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
Description:
  • The Waterfront Partnership’s Healthy Harbor Initiative works to restore and protect our city’s most valuable asset – the Baltimore Harbor. The health of the Harbor is suffering from sewage pollution, trash pollution, stormwater runoff, sparse remaining living shoreline, and most importantly widespread indifference from the Baltimore Community. To help alleviate these issues and engage the public on urban environmental solutions, Healthy Harbor has installed and managed various green infrastructure projects along the Inner Harbor’s promenade. The projects include floating wetlands, oyster gardening, Pierce’s Park rain gardens, and Mr. Trash Wheel. The Harbor Connector will transport attendees to Rash Field, located on the south side of Baltimore's Inner Harbor, which is being redesigned into an active and attractive park space to serve a diverse user base through added amenities and increased programming. *This workshop includes walking; please plan accordingly. It also includes water taxi transportation. Though the water taxi offers ways to keep the cold out, it’s recommended you bring a hat and gloves for optimal comfort.
program-list

Location:
  • Maryland E
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
Description:
  • Outdoor furniture can fundamentally shape the way people engage with a public space. But curating furniture that addresses a place’s unique needs, characteristics and culture can be a challenge. Learn how different place managers empowered artists and designers to craft furniture that elevates the public space and connects it to the surrounding city. Then share your own experiences and ideas.
Moderator:
  • Victoria Milne, Principal, 6¢ Design, Brooklyn, NY
Panelists:
  • Ignacio Ciocchini, Principal, Ciocchini Design, New York, NY
  • Darin Piippo, Market Specialist, Studio 431, Kalamazoo, MI
  • Nathan Hommel, Director of Planning and Design, University City District, Philadelphia, PA
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Location:
  • Watertable Ballroom
Domain:
  • Marketing, Communications and Events
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Downtown associations are known their attraction and retention results are due in part to their marketing efforts. But how do you produce content that helps your downtown stand out from the rest? In this panel, downtown regions like Bozeman, MT; Los Angeles, CA; and Memphis, TN will discuss how marketing their narrative started with understanding the unique pieces of their story – namely, their data.
Moderator:
  • Stephen Hardy, CEO, mySidewalk, Kansas City, MO
Panelists:
  • Penelope Huston, Vice President, Marketing, Communications & Events, Downtown Memphis Commission, Memphis, TN
  • Chris Naumann, Executive Director, Downtown Bozeman Partnership, Bozeman, MT
  • Bill Dietrich, President & CEO, Downtown Council of Kansas City, MO
  • Cate Douglas, Stakeholder Services Specialist, Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation, Cincinnati, OH
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Location:
  • Maryland A
Domain:
  • Policy and Advocacy
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Gentrification and displacement of residents and businesses alike are key issues facing communities as they grow and change, particularly for immigrants, refugees and communities of color. Learn from policymakers with urban district experience how place managers can partner to help preserve the essence of place – culture and community – utilizing strategies like local workforce investment, community wealth building, equitable development, business estate planning, nonprofit capacity building and more.
Moderator:
  • Noel Frame, Director of Policy & Planning, BDS Planning & Urban Design, Seattle, WA
Panelists:
  • Daniel Villao, Principal, Intelligent Partnerships, Seattle, WA
  • Andres Mantilla, Director, Department of Neighborhoods, City of Seattle, Seattle, WA
  • Valerie Tran, Project Manager, BDS Planning and Urban Design, Seattle, WA
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Location:
  • Maryland F
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • With autonomous vehicles on the horizon, dramatic changes in right of way and curb lane management, a proliferation of transportation network companies, an upsurge of new technologies, and the desire for sustainable facilities (both environmentally and financially) – this is one of the most exciting times in history. Using recent compelling case studies, parking and mobility experts reveal progressive new approaches to mobility management that are revolutionizing the way people move.
Moderator:
  • Vanessa Solesbee, CAPP, Parking & Transit Manager, Town of Estes Park, Estes Park, CO
Panelists:
  • Kim Jackson, CAPP, Director, Parking & Transportation Services, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ
  • Barbara Chance, PhD, President, CHANCE Management Advisors, Inc., Philadelphia, PA
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Location:
  • Maryland B
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Our experience of a downtown doesn't follow the clean boundaries of a BID or other district, and yet our charge as place managers is often defined by these hard edges. How can downtowns engage with adjacent neighborhoods to create more successful, thriving districts? Drawing upon lessons from three cities, participants will leave with a toolkit of strategies for anticipating common issues and seizing opportunities for working beyond their boundaries.
Moderator:
  • Brad Barnett, Senior Associate, Mithun, Seattle, WA
Panelists:
  • Molly Alexander, Executive Director, Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation, Austin, TX
  • Adam Perkins, Senior Manager, Urban Planning, Downtown Denver Partnership, Denver, CO
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Location:
  • Homeland
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Join IDA’s Housing Attainability Top Issue Council for a conversation on providing attainable housing in your downtown. Our panelists have diverse experience in downtown organizations, housing development and planning. The panel will discuss potential financial incentives such as tax credits and loan programs; tools such as market studies; and examples from downtown districts that have successfully spurred housing development.
Moderator:
  • Maggie Collister, Director of Research, Charlotte Center City Partners, Charlotte, NC
Panelists:
  • Amy Geren, Program Director, Portland Downtown, Portland, ME
  • Gabriel Silberblatt, MCP, Director of Strategy & Planning, BDS Planning & Urban Design, Seattle, WA
  • Ray Gibbs, PLA, ASLA, Executive Director, Forward High Point, High Point, NC
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Location:
  • Hippodrome Theatre, 12 N. Eutaw St, Baltimore, MD 21201
Master Talk Speakers:
  • Jeff Speck, Principal, Speck & Associates LLC
  • Andrea Batista Schlesinger, Partner, HR&A Advisors
  • Natasha Moraga, Urban Artist / Muralist
Sponsor:
  • Sky Connect Networks is the presenting sponsor of the 2019 IDA Downtown Achievement Awards.
Transportation:
  • Shuttles will be available from the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel headed to the Hippodrome Theatre beginning at 9:00 a.m. Shuttles will depart from the hotel front lobby drive (off of the South Street entrance). After the General Session, shuttles will begin departing at 11:30 a.m. to return attendees to the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel for lunch.
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Location:
  • Tradeshow, Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium & Baltimore Ballroom
  • Learn about innovative solutions for your district! Please visit the exhibitor page for more information.
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($35)
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domains:
  • Economic Development / Public Space Management and Operations
Description:
  • Find out how connected, data-driven infrastructure may improve the quality of urban life – and how business improvement districts use public private partnerships to create lasting smart cities technologies. Hear from IKE Smart City, Baltimore City, and Downtown Partnership of Baltimore as they delve into the smart cities’ best practices and unique public partnership to roll out a digital kiosk program in Baltimore neighborhoods in under 24 months. *This workshop includes walking; please plan accordingly.
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($35)
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
Description:
  • Every major city has a boulevard of distinction – a thoroughfare that serves as a main street attracting businesses and residences of all types, and providing a backdrop for grand civic events and celebrations. Attendees will learn how Downtown Partnership of Baltimore and its partners have re-awakened the Pratt Street corridor with enhanced pedestrian mobility and local and national stores and restaurant attraction. *This workshop includes walking; please plan accordingly.
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Location:
  • Maryland B
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
Description:
  • BIDs across the U.S. describe how they advocate for planning strategies, invest in research and community outreach, support new infrastructure and technology, and develop partnerships to collaborate on multi-modal transportation initiatives that shift the language around parking challenges in downtowns. Collaborations and marketing efforts by the organizations ensure multi-modal transportation networks are successful additions to urban livability and vibrancy.
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Moderator :
  • Amy Geren, Program Director, Portland Downtown, Portland, ME
Panelists:
  • Samantha Jackson, Senior Director of BID Services/Operations, Downtown Phoenix, Inc, Phoenix, AZ
  • Lori Foster, Chief Strategic Officer, Downtown Tempe Authority, Tempe, AZ
  • Patrick Powell, Senior Director of Operations and Preparedness, Golden Triangle BID, Washington, DC
  • Mark Minden, Vice President of Emerging Markets, Electric Cab of North America, St Louis, MO
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Location:
  • Maryland F
Domain:
  • Marketing, Communications and Events
Description:
  • We've all heard about smart data, but how does it play a role in public space activations? This panel of downtown experts will share how pedestrian data and engaging mobile surveys helped enable partners in San Francisco and Dallas advocate successfully to municipal partners, increase sponsorships in dramatic ways, enhance economic development programs and create special destinations.
Moderator:
  • Jonathan Davis, Senior Sales Executive, Smart Cities, Motionloft, San Francisco, CA
Panelist:
  • Robbie Silver, Director of Marketing & Public Realm, Union Square BID, San Francisco, CA
  • Matt Salisbury, Founder & CEO, ntropy data, inc, San Francisco, CA
  • Doug Prude, Planning and Economic Development Analyst from Downtown Dallas, Inc., Dallas, TX
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Location:
  • Watertable Ballroom
Domain:
  • Economic Development
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • P.U.M.A.'s award-winning Global Trends Report has been a go-to resource for downtowns for more than a decade. This debut of the 2020 edition will provide insight on what's next for downtowns given shifts in demographics, lifestyles and competition. The panel will also provide provocative recommendations on how downtown managers can adapt to and get ahead of trends shaping our cities.
Panelists:
  • Brad Segal, President, Progressive Urban Management Associates, Inc, Denver, CO
  • Cole Judge, Senior Associate, Progressive Urban Management Associates, Inc, Denver, CO
program-list

Location:
  • Homeland
Domain:
  • Economic Development
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • The grit and determination of immigrants pursuing the American Dream have reshaped the American urban landscape. Immigrant entrepreneurs navigate bureaucratic hurdles, language barriers and outright xenophobia to open small businesses and pioneer distressed neighborhoods – revitalizing them, often unintentionally. Citing national case studies, four professionals from diverse backgrounds share their experiences delving into subjects such as the cultural nuances to financing, murkiness of cash-only transactions, loose interpretation of rules and regulations, and more.
Moderator:
  • Michael Berne, President, MJB Consulting, New York, NY and Berkeley, CA
Panelists:
  • Woo Kim, Principal, Wallace Roberts Todd (WRT), Philadelphia, PA
  • Marla Bilonick, Executive Director, Latino Economic Development Center, Washington, DC
  • Catherine Lee, Community and Economic Development Director, City of Chamblee, Chamblee, GA
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Location:
  • Maryland A
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • What makes a thriving downtown? The correct answer includes policy, programming, design, execution and maintenance. All of these things matter, but design may be the one that is easiest to get right and most often gotten wrong. When done properly with the right homework, urban design may be the most powerful tool to attract people, jobs and investment to downtown. Join two prominent and prolific city planners to discuss the urban design principles and practices behind downtown revitalizations planned and underway in Tampa, FL; Newton, MA; Elkhart, IN; and elsewhere.
Panelists:
  • Jeff Speck, AICP, CNU-A, LEED-AP, Honorary ASLA, Principal, Speck & Associates LLC, Brookline, MA
  • David Dixon, FAIA, Vice President, Urban Places Planning and Urban Design Leader, Stantec’s Urban Places, Boston, MA
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Location:
  • Maryland E
Domain:
  • Marketing, Communication and Events
Description:
  • This session is designed to aid districts in navigating the ins and outs of event sponsorships and marketing. Learn about knowing what types of events best suit your districts, when and what to market, as well as how to capitalize on sponsorship opportunities. Case studies include Pittsburgh's "Picklesburg," Wilmington’s hurricane recovery events and Hartford's multitiered space activation.
Panelists:
  • Chip McCabe, Director of Marketing, Hartford BID, Hartford, CT
  • Ed Wolverton, President & CEO, Wilmington Downtown, Inc., Wilmington, NC
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Location:
  • Tradeshow, Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium & Baltimore Ballroom
  • Please visit the exhibitor page for more information about the Tradeshow.
Networking Break sponsored by Streetplus:
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Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($35)
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Description:
  • Homelessness is a prevalent issue in nearly every urban setting. Join Nate Fields, Downtown Partnership of Baltimore’s Vice President of Public Space Maintenance for an in-depth study of Baltimore’s homeless issues and working solutions. Spend the first portion of the tour engaging with leading outreach entities including Healthcare Access Maryland, People Encouraging People, Weinberg Housing Resource Center, Homeless Outreach Team, and the Mayor’s Office of Human Services. The group will then visit current and former homeless encampments. *This workshop includes walking; please plan accordingly.
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($60)
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
Description:
  • Board one of the new Under Armour-funded Water Taxis, and motor around our beloved Inner Harbor. Our guide will point out areas where our historic waterfront has given way to exciting new development, as well as iconic skyline-fixtures like the Domino’s Sugar plant, 414 Light Street, The National Aquarium, and Harbor Point. *This workshop includes water taxi transportation. Though the water taxi offers ways to keep the cold out, it’s recommended you bring a hat and gloves for optimal comfort.
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Location:
  • Homeland
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
Description:
  • Global warming is a real concern and each of us have a responsibility to limit our carbon footprint – especially businesses. Typically, improvement districts use gasoline powered equipment to augment manual labor cleaning efforts. Panelists will introduce alternative ways to achieve your clean and safe goals, and make a case for alternative options related to equipment that will reduce your carbon footprint and operating costs while improving efficiencies.
Moderator:
  • David Goldberg, Chief Executive Officer & Principal, Streetplus Company, LLC, Brooklyn, NY
Panelists:
  • Charles Broad, Executive Director, Reading Downtown Improvement District, Reading, PA
  • Matt Allen, Operations Manager, Downtown Berkeley Association, Berkeley, CA
program-list

Location:
  • Watertable Ballroom
Domain:
  • Marketing, Communications and Events
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • They say perception is reality, but often negative perceptions about a place obscure positive changes, inhibiting growth and success. Whether the narrative is about high crime rates or inauthentic tourist traps, changing perceptions can require a multi-prong effort. Using case studies from a variety of locations, panelists will discuss how tools such as audience research, re-branding and press strategy can highlight local assets and reshape the narrative.
Moderator:
  • Joe Gudenrath, Executive Director, Downtown El Paso, TX
Panelists:
  • TJ Witham, Communications Director, Times Square Alliance, New York, NY
  • Lauren Hamilton, Vice President, Marketing & Promotions, Downtown Partnership of Baltimore, Baltimore, MD
  • Steffen Poessiger, Vice President, Mithoff Burton Partners, El Paso, TX
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Location:
  • Maryland E
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Great streets are the hallmark of successful cities. In cities that lack underground rail, surface street buses are the lifeblood of downtown mobility, and one or two streets can act as dedicated busways. In addition to carrying people to and through downtown, these transit streets are also important pedestrian corridors. Learn how Denver, Minneapolis, and Seattle are reinventing the way they do transit.
Moderator:
  • Matt Shawaker, Senior Associate, Stantec’s Urban Places, Denver, CO
Panelists:
  • Jacqueline Gruber, AICP, Senior Economic Development Manager, Downtown Seattle Association, Seattle, WA
  • Lisa Middag, Director of Nicollet Activation, Mpls Downtown Improvement District, Minneapolis, MN
  • Adam Perkins, AICP, Senior Manager of Urban Planning, Downtown Denver Partnership, Denver, CO
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Location:
  • Maryland F
Domain:
  • Policy and Advocacy
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • IDA’s Municipal Partnerships Top Issues Council examined agreements and best practices to identify the factors that enable true partnerships between a municipality and a place management organization. Learn about collaborative approaches BIDs and municipalities have taken to strengthen their relationships. Hear about tools for creating champions, breaking silos and structuring agreements. Workshop your PMO/Municipal relationship with the Council to identify steps to move closer to a true partnership.
Moderator:
  • Tim Tompkins, President, Times Square Alliance, New York, NY
Panelists:
  • Roxanne Earley, Director, Business Improvement District Program, NYC Department of Small Business Services, New York, NY
  • Paul MacKinnon, CEO, Downtown Halifax, Halifax, NS
  • Jennifer Lindley, Downtown Development Manager, Town of Queen Creek, Queen Creek, AZ
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Location:
  • Maryland A
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Confused about the historic preservation lingo and tax credits? Don't know the difference between the National Register and a locally designated landmark? Wondering why design guidelines for matching grants for storefront rehab matter, and why the Secretary of the Interior has standards that should be followed when rehabbing historic properties? This panel will clear it all up for you in a snappy presentation with a host of handouts.
Panelists:
  • Brian Goeken, AICP, Technical Preservation Services National Park Service, Washington, DC
  • Donna Ann Harris, Principal, Heritage Consulting, Inc., Philadelphia, PA
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Location:
  • Maryland B
Description:
  • Inclusive city building is a core value we all share and yet the path forward is not completely clear. Whether we are thinking in terms of our districts or of the place management profession, the strategies and tools for reaching our own expectations for diversity and equity are unwritten. The conversation begins in Baltimore and you are invited to participate in a round table discussion exploring ways to best move ahead and take a leadership role so everyone can see a place where they belong.
Moderator:
  • David Downey, President and CEO, International Downtown Association, Washington, DC
Panelists:
  • Andrea Batista Schlesinger, Partner, HR&A Advisors, New York, NY
  • Natalie Avery, Executive Director, DC BID Council, Washington, DC
  • Derreck Hughes, Vice President of Operations, Block by Block, Louisville, KY
program-list

Location:
  • Tradeshow, Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium & Baltimore Ballroom
  • Companies offering innovative solutions and programs to enhance your district are on-site and ready to answer your questions. End the day with a beverage and say hello to colleagues and friends while we celebrate a first look at IDA’s Vitality Index powered by Stantec.

Wednesday 30 Oct 2019

program-list
Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium, 202 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Sponsor:
  • Registration sponsored by MIG 
program-list

Location:
  • Tradeshow, Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium & Baltimore Ballroom
  • Please visit the exhibitor page for more information about the Tradeshow.
program-list
Location:
  • Maryland Ballroom DC
Master Talk Speakers:
  • Albus Brooks, Vice President of Business Development and Strategy, Milender White
  • Molly Alexander, Executive Director, Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation
  • John Snook, Executive Director, Treatment Advocacy Center
  • Kate Joncas, Director of Urban Strategy and Development, MIG
program-list

Location:
  • Tradeshow, Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium & Baltimore Ballroom
  • Please visit the exhibitor page for more information about the Tradeshow.
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($60)
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
Description :
  • This mobile workshop will concentrate on clean and safe teams, public safety, and homelessness. Operations programs are as distinct and original as the neighborhoods they serve. Hear from the two largest business improvement districts in Baltimore about how they manage their operations programs. Waterfront Partnership and Downtown Partnership tackle the daily challenges with different organization methods but collaborate regularly with their shared mission to make Baltimore clean, safe, and hospitable. The groups will discuss management practices including vendor contracting, second-chance programs, and staff recruitment and retention. *This workshop includes walking; please plan accordingly.
program-list
Price:
  • $35
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Economic Development
Description:
  • In 2011, the Downtown Partnership adopted the Downtown Baltimore Strategic Plan, which establishes a vision for achieving a world-class downtown. Key strategic recommendations of the plan included leveraging underutilized and vacant properties to facilitate redevelopment. In order to realize this recommendation, the plan called for the development creative incentives to spur investment. As a result of the High-Performance Market Rate Tax Credit program, many former office buildings have been converted to residential properties and have increased the City’s population. Attendees will experience the fantastic lifestyle offered by these invigorated addresses. *This workshop includes walking; please plan accordingly.
program-list

Location:
  • Watertable Ballroom
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Often, place managers approach homelessness as a nuisance to be abated through things like “hostile architecture,” but often find this approach counterproductive. Some districts are exploring new approaches to serve people experiencing homelessness with programs like pop-up public toilets and social media videos to reunite families, to more expansive social worker interventions and eviction prevention strategies. This session will present ideas and spark discussion on compassionate and inclusive approaches.
Moderator:
  • Karin Flood, Executive Director, Union Square BID, San Francisco, CA
Panelists:
  • Kate Fenske, CEO, Downtown Winnipeg BIZ, Winnipeg, MB
  • Christian Martin, Executive Director, Lower Polk Community Benefit District, San Francisco, CA
  • Ansley Whipple, Woodruff Park Project Manager, Atlanta Downtown Improvement District, Atlanta, GA
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Location:
  • Maryland F
Domain:
  • Marketing, Communications and Events
Description:
  • What’s your social strategy? A question we’ve all been asked, but have no simple answer. From understanding your goals and audience to maintaining your brand, come learn tools for crafting a social strategy to fit your downtown and organization.
Moderator :
  • Becky Fetty, Director of Marketing and Membership, Downtown Fort Worth, Inc., Fort Worth, TX
Panelists:
  • Nicole Fincher, Marketing and Special Projects Manager, Downtown Fort Worth, Inc, Fort Worth, TX
  • Lauren Potter, Community Editor, Downtown Phoenix, Inc, Phoenix, AZ
  • Britt Diehl, Manager, Executive Office & Special Projects, Downtown Denver Partnership, Denver, CO
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Location:
  • Maryland E
Domain:
  • Economic Development
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • For decades, downtowns were built on the premise that office recruitment and expansion was the foundational element for long term success. Our panel believes that housing is now playing an outsized role in surging downtown success and that the attraction of housing is a necessary precursor to bring jobs back from the suburbs. Panelists will explore this idea with real-world market data and case studies from Charlotte, Denver, and elsewhere.
Moderator:
  • Craig Lewis, Principal, Planning & Urban Design | Smart Mobility, Stantec’s Urban Places, Charlotte, NC
Panelists:
  • Laura Volk, Co-Managing Director, Zimmerman/Volk Associates, Clinton, NJ
  • Randy Thelen, Vice President Economic Development, Downtown Denver Partnership, Denver, Co
  • Larisa Ortiz, Managing Director, Streetsense, Jackson Heights, NY
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Location:
  • Homeland
Domain:
  • Policy and Advocacy
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description :
  • Discuss the big-picture policy issues impacting cities, and the role of place management organizations in advocating for thoughtful solutions. Case studies from different countries involved in collective advocacy and organizing will review the national climate in their respective places, and open the floor for a discussion about key policy goals and priorities. This session will be a continuation of conversations from the IDA Ideas Forum and the Canadian National Policy Summit.
Moderator:
  • Tim Tompkins, President, Times Square Alliance, New York, NY
Panelist:
  • Paul Mackinnon, CEO, Downtown Halifax Business Commission, Halifax, NS
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Location:
  • Maryland A
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Explore how BIDs and other community organizations are initiating and advancing the next generation of imaginative park and transportation infrastructure projects that breakdown barriers and enhance mobility, create place, enhance livability and spur economic development for downtown. Featured projects include the Crystal City to Washington National Airport (CC2DCA) Intermodal Pedestrian Connection in Arlington, VA; Rail Park and Dilworth Park in Philadelphia, PA; and the 11th Street Bridge Park in Washington, DC.
Moderator:
  • Tracy Gabriel, President & Executive Director, Crystal City BID, Arlington, VA
Panelists:
  • Robert Mandle, COO, Crystal City BID, Arlington, VA
  • Scott Kratz, Executive Director, Building Bridges Across the River, Washington, DC
  • Paul Levy, President and CEO, Center City District, Philadelphia, PA
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Location:
  • Maryland B
Domain:
  • Economic Development
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • While retail retreat dominates the headlines, examples abound of innovation in storefront design, visual merchandising and unique experience for customers. This panel will demonstrate components of storefronts to help them sell – from doors and windows, to lighting, visual merchandising and more. Innovative approaches to design will be highlighted including activation of vacant storefronts and the public realm around them, and creative approaches to funding projects.
Moderator:
  • Isaac Kremer, Executive Director, Metuchen Downtown Alliance, Metuchen, NJ
Panelists:
  • Seanette Corkill, Founder, Frontdoor Back, LLC, Vancouver, WA
  • Jonathan Berk, Director, Patronicity, Detroit, MI
program-list

Location:
  • Tradeshow, Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium & Baltimore Ballroom
Explore Urban Renewal Products & Services! Please visit the exhibitor page for more information.:
program-list
Price:
  • $60
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Economic Development
Description:
  • East Baltimore Development, Inc. is a 501c3 created to re-energize and rebuild the East Baltimore neighborhood by leveraging proximity to the Johns Hopkins medical complex into an economic driver for the neighborhood; revitalize institutions that encourage resident recruitment and retention; and replace aging houses with new mixed income rental and sale units. When completed, the project will include 2,100 units of mixed income homeownership and rental units, 1.7 million square feet of research and office space, 7-acre community learning campus complete with a childcare center, public K- 8 elementary school, supermarket, retail amenities, green spaces, and a new linear park. *This workshop includes bus transportation.
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($35)
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
Description:
  • The impact of a Downtown’s shared greenspace cannot be underestimated. It’s where residents become neighbors; skeptical employees become city-converts, and tourists become repeat visitors. Tour two of Downtown Partnership of Baltimore's marquee spaces- Preston Gardens and Center Plaza and take part in an interactive charette while learning about creating scalable places through public-private partnerships. *This workshop includes walking; please plan accordingly.
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Location:
  • Maryland B
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Learn from leading experts in urban park management and improvement projects across the United States. The session will help build your value proposition for enhancing and investing in high-quality public spaces and green space.
Moderator:
  • Beth Weirick, CEO, Milwaukee Downtown, BID #21, Milwaukee, WI
Panelists:
  • Dan Melman, Vice President of Parks and Public Realm, Capitol Riverfront BID, Washington, DC
  • Paul R. Levy, President and CEO, Center City District, Philadelphia, PA
  • Karen True, Director of Business and Community Development at Pioneer Square, Seattle, WA
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Location:
  • Maryland A
Domain:
  • Policy and Advocacy
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • This session will present the first iteration of the IDA Vitality Index, powered by Stantec. The Index will be an interactive, online tool to benchmark the vitality of downtowns across the U.S. It includes select indicators of economy, inclusion and vibrancy to enable urban place managers to objectively quantify and benchmark their district’s strengths and weaknesses against peer cities. During the session, panelists will share the Index and discuss how districts can use this data.
Panelists:
  • Cathy Lin, AICP, Director of Research, International Downtown Association, Washington, DC
  • David Dixon, FAIA, Vice President, Urban Places Planning and Urban Design Leader, Stantec’s Urban Places, Boston, MA
  • Maggie Collister, Director of Research, Charlotte Center City Partners, Charlotte, NC
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Location:
  • Watertable Ballroom
Domain:
  • Economic Development
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • As cities continue to grapple with storefront vacancies, short-term retail concepts are becoming essential to re-establishing the density of commercial districts and creating new, affordable business opportunities for local entrepreneurs. Find out how cities are supporting pop-up retail and dining by lowering barriers to entry for small businesses through regulatory incentives and comprehensive pop-up retail programs, with examples from California and Tennessee.
Moderator:
  • Nur Asri, AICP, Senior Research Strategist, Streetsense, New York, NY
Speakers:
  • Brett Roler, VP of Planning and Development, Downtown Memphis Commission, Memphis, TN
  • Nick Griffin, Executive Director, Downtown Center BID, Los Angeles, CA
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Location:
  • Maryland E
Domain:
  • Organizational Management
Description:
  • You face multiple challenges meeting your community’s needs, and your board can be your greatest asset or your biggest obstacle. This interactive session will share tips, proven tools and real-world examples that will help you attract and engage the right board members. Each member brings skills and motivations, and you’ll learn key strategies to get them all playing from the same sheet of music (and surviving their sour notes!).
Panelists:
  • Mary-Claire Burick, President, Rosslyn Business Improvement District, Arlington, VA
  • Tina Leone, CEO, Ballston BID, Arlington, VA
  • Charles Gauthier, MCP, President & CEO, Downtown Vancouver BIA, BC
program-list

Location:
  • Homeland
Domain:
  • Leadership Development
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Downtowns throughout the world are launching new collaborative initiatives thanks to connections made through IDA. In advance of Mayflower 400, the downtown partnerships in Baltimore, MD and Southampton, UK have “twinned” with each other after meeting at the World Towns Leadership Summit in Berlin in 2018. With a shared history of port/waterfront regeneration, the two organizations have identified common themes and implemented a program of thought leadership, knowledge transfer, and staff and artist exchanges. In addition to other international partnerships to be discussed, the Japan Area Management Network will review its new collaboration with Singapore and South Korea on common issues and opportunities resulting from the 2019 IDA Summit in Tokyo.
Moderator:
  • David Downey, President & CEO, International Downtown Association, Washington, DC
Panelists:
  • Miki Yasui, Professor, Hosei University; Vice Chair, Japan Area Management Network, Tokyo, Japan
  • Rebecca Handley, Operations Director, Go! Southampton BID, Southampton, London, England
  • Kirby Fowler, President, Downtown Partnership of Baltimore, MD
program-list
Location:
  • Maryland F
Domain:
  • Policy & Advocacy
Description:
  • By the time we are all in Baltimore, Canadians will have elected a new federal government. And for the first time, over 500 business improvement associations and societes des commerce (in Québec) will have had the opportunity – in an organized and co-ordinated fashion – to influence the results. We utilized the ONE NATIONAL VOICE Policy Framework, created earlier this year by Canadian IDA members and based on national issues impacting city and town commercial centres, to engage local federal candidates. Attend this session to learn how effective our actions were and help shape the next steps for the National Network of IDA Canada to actively engage our new Federal Government. This session will conclude with a Canadian Roundtable discussion about our national network.
Moderators:
  • Judith Veresuk, Chair, National Network Leadership Group, Regina, SK
  • Ken Kelly, IDA Canada, Halifax, NS
program-list

Location:
  • Tradeshow, Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, Fifth Floor Atrium & Baltimore Ballroom
  • Please visit the exhibitor page for more information about the Tradeshow.
program-list
Price:
  • SOLD OUT ($60)
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
Description:
  • This vibrant arts community is in the center of Baltimore. The neighborhood contains artist live-work spaces, galleries, rowhomes, apartments and businesses, and is also near major institutions such as the Maryland Institute College of Art, University of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins University. Its proximity to Penn Station makes the community a major transportation hub with easy access to Washington, DC, Philadelphia and New York. Tour a new apartment building, renovated theaters, a non-profit arts hub with gallery and performance space, and hear about redevelopment plans for Amtrak’s Penn Station. *This workshop includes bus transportation as well as walking; please plan accordingly.
program-list
Price:
  • $35
Meeting Location:
  • Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, First floor Lobby
Domain:
  • Economic Development
Description:
  • Downtown Baltimore’s Core Tech generates $830 million in annual compensation and $1.8 billion in annual output. Strong showings like this are why Cushman & Wakefield included Baltimore as top #12 in their Tech Cities 1.0 report released in 2017. Learn how a series of TechConnect grants helped draw small tech companies to Downtown Baltimore neighborhoods. The award-winning TechConnect grant program has placed a dozen small tech companies in under five years, attracting employees and residents along the way. This workshop will also touch on adaptive reuse and the evolution of office space leasing. *This workshop includes walking; please plan accordingly.
program-list

Location:
  • Maryland E
Domain:
  • Public Space Management and Operations
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description :
  • Ever wonder what it takes to put on a great event that fundamentally dials up your downtown revival efforts? Hear from practitioners who are executing innovative place making strategies that drive economic development and engage the creative economy – both day and night – and come prepared to ask your most vexing questions in a robust Q&A troubleshooting session with our expert panel.
Moderator:
  • Larisa Ortiz, Managing Director, Streetsense, Jackson Heights, NY
Panelists:
  • Leni Schwendinger, Creative Director, Nightseeing™, New York, NY
  • Karen Auster, Founder and CEO, Auster Agency, Brooklyn, NY
  • Lynn McCormack, National Program Director, Creative Placemaking, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, New York, NY
program-list
Location:
  • Maryland B
Domain:
  • Economic Development
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington, DC are using strategies to accelerate residential growth in downtown that require financial support from their city governments. The BIDs from these areas will discuss the economics and fiscal impact of their programs, the political strategy used to bring each program to fruition, and the on-going management and messaging when downtowns are rebounding and thriving, while other portions of the city may be lagging.
Moderator:
  • Neil Albert, President & CEO, DowntownDC BID, Washington, DC
Panelists:
  • Kirby Fowler, President, Downtown Partnership of Baltimore, Baltimore, MD
  • Paul Levy, President & CEO, Center City District, Philadelphia, PA
  • Gerry Widdicombe, Director of Economic Development, DowntownDC BID, Washington, DC
program-list

Location:
  • Maryland A
Domain:
  • Economic Development
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • This session will show how to develop a higher-impact, sustainable, inclusive and more effective way to accelerate innovation and entrepreneurship downtown through programs, places, nerve centers, districts and ecosystems. Two case studies will illustrate these concepts: a downtown district in Metuchen, NJ with over $100 million of investment since 2016, and Makerhoods, innovative live-work space, also in New Jersey. These examples will show how innovation is achievable by everyone.
Moderator:
  • Isaac Kremer, Executive Director, Metuchen Downtown Alliance, Metuchen, NJ
Panelists:
  • Della Rucker, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, Econogy Talent Group, Cincinnati, OH
  • Avi Telyas, Founder and CEO, Markerhoods, Newark, NJ
program-list

Location:
  • Homeland
Domain:
  • Planning, Design, and Infrastructure
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Addressing sustainability and resilience is critical to the future of our cities. Urban management districts are uniquely positioned to implement key strategies, from grassroots efforts to more large-scale planning initiatives. Learn how several downtowns across North America are catalyzing and advancing sustainability in their districts.
Panelists:
  • Gavin Duffus, Economic Development Manager, Downtown Vancouver BIA, Vancouver, BC
  • Jessica Lappin, President, Alliance for Downtown New York, NY
  • Audrey Leous, AICP, Project Manager, Planning & Sustainability, Central Atlanta Progress, Atlanta, GA
program-list

Location:
  • Maryland F
Domain:
  • Planning, Design and Infrastructure
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • City planning tools like zoning and comprehensive planning are powerful forces that can help unleash the potential of neighborhoods, but the process of updating them can be a lengthy and a deeply political endeavor. Hear two case studies of planning policies being modernized to better reflect the current and future needs of neighborhoods.
Panelists:
  • Jay Renkens, AICP, Principal and Director of Denver Area Operations, MIG, Inc, Denver, CO
  • Barbara Blair, President, Garment District Alliance, New York, NY
program-list

Location:
  • Watertable Ballroom
Domain:
  • Domain: Economic Development
AICP Certification Maintenance Credits:
  • CM | 1.5
Description:
  • Many place management organizations that began with "clean and safe" (and viewed public art as merely a re-branding tool) are now becoming sophisticated curators of culture, and serving as a counterpoint to the homogenization that often grows from economic success. This panel will explore the tools for nurturing genuine partnerships with cultural organizations from different communities in a way that empowers lesser known artists, connects disparate communities and develops an authentic urban core.
Panelists:
  • Tim Tompkins, President, Times Square Alliance, New York, NY
  • Karen Brooks-Hopkins, President Emerita, BAM and Nasher Haemisegger Fellow of the National Center for Arts Research at SMU, New York, NY
  • Carla Perlo, Co-Founder, Dance Place, Washington, DC
program-list
Location:
  • IMET at the Columbus Center, 701 E. Pratt Street
Description:
  • Close out the 2019 Annual Conference & Tradeshow with a celebration at the IMET Columbus Center located on Pier 5 of Baltimore’s famous Inner Harbor. The architecturally striking, multi-use facility is one of the country’s leading centers for research and economic development in life sciences, biotechnology and health care. In addition to stunning water and city views, reception attendees will be rewarded with a sneak preview of Baltimore’s Light City, one of the country’s largest light exhibitions, which begins on November 1 and will be setting up on the adjacent canals and walkways. IMET at the Columbus Center is an easy 10 minute walk (0.5 mile) from the host hotel. Shuttles will not be provided.

Sponsors

Urban Champions

Presenting Awards Sponsor

District Advocates

Ambassadors

Exhibitors

Corporate representatives are coming to Baltimore to share their innovative solutions with you. Please plan to spend time meeting each exhibitor and enjoy a sneak peek of the companies participating.

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Interested in Sponsoring?

Gain access to an audience of urban leaders from around the country who want to learn about your product or service.

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Interested in Hosting?

If you are interested in hosting a future event, contact Carolyn Dellutri, IDA Director of Professional Development.

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Questions?

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

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