Loveable Downtown districts – Conversations at the ULI Fall Meeting

Speakers from the “Making Downtowns Loveable: Stewarding the New Urban Experience” session.

The Urban Land Institute (ULI) Fall Meeting took place from 4 – 6 November and was held in San Francisco – a city known for its innovation and dynamism. The convention brought together over 5,000 delegates in interactive sessions, roundtable discussions, small group tours and networking events.

A New Urban Experience

Dr Hee participated in a session titled “Making Downtowns Loveable: Stewarding the New Urban Experience” where speakers shared a range of perspectives across stakeholder profiles and cities like San Francisco, London, Chicago, Singapore, Dallas and Copenhagen.

Dr Hee introduced CLC’s study and e-publication on Shaping Future Central Business Districts. She talked about how downtowns around the world face common challenges such as shifting work patterns and the need to remain competitive. Hence, rejuvenation strategies should revolve around five key pillars that may differ in focus but are also mutually reinforcing: Connected, Distinctive, Integrative, Vibrant, and Responsive. In addition, she highlighted the importance of context for place management, emphasising that Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) should consider their local demographic and distinctive qualities when developing downtown visions.

Activation of spaces and planning for mixed-use were recurring themes raised during the panel discussion. Some examples shared were streamlining permit approvals and inserting pop-ups in vacant storefronts in San Francisco, reclaiming streets for public and green spaces at Strand Aldwych in London, injecting elements of surprise for memorable events in the Chicago Loop, and harnessing the value of cultural organisations in drawing visitors and boosting vibrancy in the Dallas Arts District.

While applying these approaches, panellists called for a balance between large-scale and quick win projects, enhancing wellness and experiential offerings, as well as ensuring safety and affordability. Downtowns should also cater to all ages – from Gen Z to families. At the same time, they need to embrace some messiness rather than being overly regulated.

WRLDCTY Salon - Shaping the next era of downtowns

Dr Hee sharing on Singapore’s business districts

Building on these concepts, Dr Hee then joined a salon on how human(e) design is shaping the next era of downtowns. Organised by WRLDCTY and hosted on the Historic Klamath, topics included designing cities for longevity that go beyond simply reacting to the needs of seniors to actively supporting people to age well and healthily. A recurring message across multiple presentations was that strong partnerships were necessary for success.

Study Tour

Thrive City (left) and its public art installations (right).

The delegation also took part in a ULI study tour to Mission Bay, visiting sites like the Thrive City entertainment district and the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) medical campus. We learned about the development of Mission Bay over the years and how the Golden State Warriors played a role in creating a compelling experience for the community and visitors around Chase Center. The UCSF tour also showcased how they have built 24 buildings in 25 years, designing spaces with both patients and researchers in mind.

 CLC looks forward to reconnecting with city officials from San Franscisco and San Jose at the upcoming World Cities Summit in 2026!

Read our research on Central Business Districts here:  Shaping Future Central Business Districts: Perspectives from Global Stakeholders | Centre for Liveable Cities Knowledge Hub

Contributed by: Alison Lee, Assistant Director, Research