Downtown Matters Conference
July 16-17, 2026 • Orpheum Theater, Downtown Flagstaff
Join downtown leaders, planners, policymakers, and placemaking professionals for a two-day conference exploring why downtowns matter and how vibrant urban centers drive economic vitality, community
connection, and long-term resilience.
The event features keynote speakers Joe Minicozzi (Urban3), Charles Marohn (Strong Towns), and Jon Jon Wesolowski (The Happy Urbanist), along with expert panels, fresh ideas, and curated downtown experiences.
Key Speakers: Downtown Professionals from Throughout the Nation
- Charles Marohn: Strong Towns
- Joe Minicozzi: Urban3
- Jon Jon Wesolowski: The Happy Urbanist
Conference Details:
- Two days of learning and networking
- 4-5 sessions per day
- Networking breakfast and lunch daily
- Mural tours, happy hours, and more
Conference Schedule:
Thursday, July 16th
- Opening Keynote - To Be Announced
- Local Leaders - Downtown Community and What It Means to Them
- Whitney Hoffman Sayal - Executive Director Downtown Baton Rouge
- Cary Tyson - Executive Director Downtown Portland, ME - Public Realm Investment and Activation
- Keynote - Jon Jon Wesolowski - The Happy Urbanist - Enhancing The Pedestrian Experience
Friday, July 17th
- Opening Keynote - Joe Minicozzi - Urban3 - Geoaccounting
- Kimber Lanning - Local First Arizona
- Kevin Blanchard - CEO Downtown Development Authority Lafayette, LA
- Cathleen Edgerly - Executive Director, Downtown Lansing, MI - The Role of Downtowns in Economic Development
- Closing Keynote - Charles Marohn - The Strong Towns Approach
Tickets:
*Your ticket includes breakfast and lunch on both days, as well as access to all sessions
$220 All-Access Early Bird ends on May 12th
$275 All-Access After May 12th
For group rates, email info@downtownflagstaff.org
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