Downtown KC Goes to DC for International Conference
By Ann Holliday, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Downtown Council of Kansas City
Downtown Council staff attended the International Downtown Association Conference in Washington, D.C. in early October. The conference provides us the opportunity to meet with our counterparts from across the country, discuss best practices in Downtown management, and consider future trends.
This year we also had the opportunity to meet up with our friends at Midtown KC Now, the Plaza District Council, the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City and even a few KC City Council members who were in DC for a different conference.
Washington DC provided an interesting backdrop to learn about activating parks and public spaces, economic development, human services, safety and even board management!
Here are a few snapshots from the trip:
On one of Jared Campbell’s tours, he saw firsthand how their BID (business improvement district) created a temporary pocket park on a small lot that one day will be redeveloped. Artwork, string lights, seating, yard games, and some synthetic grass quickly and easily transformed what would have been an ugly, empty parcel into an inviting and programmable public space that became a positive amenity for the neighborhood.
Jared also toured the Old Town Historical District in Alexandria, VA. He was really impressed with their way-finding system, and how they converted a key street in their downtown to pedestrian only; first as a pilot project during the Covid-19 pandemic and now on a permanent basis.
Ann toured many parks and plazas throughout the City; operated by BIDs in coordination with the District and the National Park services. A few things in particular stood out. For instance, this park in NOMA was full of murals, plenty of seats in shaded areas and an extremely clean public bathroom.
One of the BIDs, lived into its brand and as an arts center and wrapped their vehicles in artwork from muralists who have worked in the area.
The Golden Triangle District celebrates the arts with a series of interactive temporary sculptures by LeMonde Studio. The Harp is featured here. I turned the crank and enjoyed the music and lights.
We all returned to Kansas City with new ideas, new information and new (or refreshed!) relationships with our colleagues across the country!
