West Coast Downtowns: Resilience, Recovery and Beyond
Downtowns up and down the West Coast have been hit particularly hard by the COVID crisis. As we look to rebuild, how do we ensure our post-pandemic downtowns are lively, thriving and welcoming to all?
More than just a central business district, each downtown projects a civic identity that offers opportunities to build community, welcome residents and visitors, enhance the economy, and create wonder. Building back better requires a critical look at our past and a clear vision for the future. Can we transform our downtowns beyond the central business district into active, vibrant neighborhoods that center our cities? And what does revival mean in the context of all of our region’s residents?
Join panelists from San Francisco, Portland, and Seattle to explore shared challenges and opportunities, including where we are and where we go from here.
Wednesday, May 26 | 5:00 – 6:30 pm PT | Online
Moderator
David Brewster | Journalist, publisher, and civic entrepreneur
Panelists
Pamela Banks | Interim Director of the Office of Economic Development and Director of Recovery and Equitable Investments | City of Seattle
Kate Joncas | Director of Urban Strategy and Development | MIG | Former deputy mayor of Seattle and Downtown Seattle Association president and CEO
Maia Small | Principal Architect and Urban Designer, City Design, San Francisco Planning | City of San Francisco
Khanh Tran | Director, Business & Economic Development; Mayor’s lead for business development and engagement | City of Portland
Presented by the City of Seattle, Office of Planning & Development and AIA Seattle.
