Knowledge Center
Public Space Management and Operations
Operations of a place requires the daily management of the physical space, whether publicly or privately owned, that encompasses cleaning, beautification, wayfinding, infrastructure maintenance, outreach, green space, and parking. Place managers address both the actual and perceived safety and security issues of a place by providing services, outreach and facilities. Place managers foster relationships with local and regional providers to share resources and information with the goal of cultivating safe and vibrant communities. Clean and safe teams have evolved within some districts to include engagement and intervention for those in need within our urban places.
ReStore Facade and Tenant Improvement Program
ReStore provides matching grants for façade improvements and tenant upgrades to activate vacant storefronts and support business growth. The program leverages private investment, improves walkability and strengthens commercial corridors through targeted redevelopment incentives. Reno, Reno Redevelopment Agency.
We’d love for you to see this member-only resource to help make a difference in your district. Make sure you are logged in or join IDA to learn more about how members get sh*t done!
East Cut Electric
East Cut Electric transformed a blank utility structure into a permanent digital public art installation supporting neighborhood identity and wayfinding. Rotating projections activate the streetscape, increase visitation and provide a scalable model for integrating technology and public art. San Francisco, The East Cut CBD.
We’d love for you to see this member-only resource to help make a difference in your district. Make sure you are logged in or join IDA to learn more about how members get sh*t done!
Advancing Places: Police Partnerships
As downtowns and districts evolve, so do the expectations placed on urban place management organizations and their public safety partners. Highlighting the 2025 Top Issues Council on Police Partnerships, this webinar explores how districts and law enforcement agencies can strengthen collaboration to create safer, more welcoming environments. Featuring speakers from SODO BIA (Seattle), Saint Paul Downtown Alliance, and Downtown Van (Vancouver, BC)
Read MorePreparing for the Unthinkable: Crisis Response in Downtown
Preparing for the Unthinkable documents crisis response lessons from Waukesha and Sun Prairie, detailing communications, memorial management, event security changes, and long-term recovery actions. Practitioners gain concrete checklists, coordination strategies, and policy shifts following violent incidents.
We’d love for you to see this member-only resource to help make a difference in your district. Make sure you are logged in or join IDA to learn more about how members get sh*t done!
IDA Issue Brief: Making Downtowns Safe for Everyone
Rising crime and perceptions of unsafe conditions are slowing downtown recovery by discouraging visitors and office workers and weakening regional economies. Key factors include reduced police staffing and increased organized “smash‑and‑grab” retail theft. Federal support, especially through flexible Byrne JAG funding, helps communities address crime and improve public safety. This Issue Brief was prepared for IDA’s April 2026 Capitol Hill Fly-In.
Read MoreIDA Issue Brief: Fighting Organized Retail Crime
Organized retail crime is fueling a damaging cycle in downtowns, driving store closures, reducing activity, and heightening fears about safety. Retailers report sharp increases in theft, losses, repeat offenders, and violence. These crimes raise consumer prices, strain workers and businesses, and undermine the vitality of downtowns and main streets. This Issue Brief was prepared for IDA’s April 2026 Capitol Hill Fly-In.
Read MoreIDA Issue Brief: Ending Homelessness
Homelessness affects all demographics and has worsened due to rising housing costs and the COVID‑19 pandemic. HUD reports over 770,000 people experienced homelessness in January 2024, an 18% increase from the prior year. Federal Homeless Assistance Grants are central to helping communities reduce homelessness and return people to stable, permanent housing. This Issue Brief was prepared for IDA’s April 2026 Capitol Hill Fly-In.
Read MoreRegional Approach to Homelessness
Homelessness is among the most visible crises for cities today. In urban regions, many worry about simply pushing those experiencing homelessness around from one jurisdiction to another as one district or another declares a clean and safe emergency. Regional approaches, in which multiple jurisdictions collaborate, pool resources, share information or deploy joint programs have gained support in recent years with mixed results.
Read MoreAdvancing Places: Creating a Socially Conscious Downtown
Explore the critical intersection of social impact and a robust downtown. Discover how to create impactful programs that go beyond traditional clean streets initiatives, integrating job readiness, mental health for ambassadors and direct assistance for underserved populations. Learn from successful models and innovative partnerships that prioritize community well-being and a thriving downtown environment. Gain insights into measuring a holistic program impact and effectively communicating the
Read MoreTop Issues Council Brief: Police Partnerships
Urban districts need effective UPMO/police partnerships more than ever. Recognizing the resources, knowledge and unique roles of both UPMOs and law enforcement, cities across North America have begun adopting more holistic, collaborative and innovative approaches to community safety. Police/UPMO partnerships boost downtown safety—and perceptions of safety—for residents, visitors and workers.
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