Revitalize to Thrive: Fostering Sustainable Business Improvement Districts and Downtown Revival
Originally recorded on June 11, 2024
About the Session
Aimed at BR&E professionals, urban planners, and community leaders, this workshop delves into the art and science of revitalizing Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) and downtown cores. Participants will learn about successful revitalization strategies, from stakeholder engagement and community partnership building to innovative economic and environmental sustainability practices. The session promises to be a blend of theory and practice, providing participants with the tools and inspiration needed to transform their downtown areas into vibrant economic and cultural centers. This session is 1.0 hour of continuing education.
About the Speakers
Alia Abbas
Alia Abbas is the CEO and Founder of Alia Consulting, a firm specializing in disaster preparedness, business continuity, and strategic economic development support for municipalities across North America. With over a decade of project management experience, she has led initiatives in investment attraction, supply chain strategy, and business retention and expansion. Her firm has collaborated with leading organizations including the International Economic Development Council, City of Toronto, and Toronto Global. Alia’s contributions have earned her international recognition, including the 2023 Top 40 Under 40 award and a letter of recognition from the Premier of Ontario.
Ramona Gallagher
Ramona Gallagher is a veteran economic development professional with over 25 years of experience supporting small businesses, startups, and community revitalization efforts. She formerly served as Managing Director of the “My Main Street” initiative, where she led a $23.5 million government-funded program to stimulate local economic growth. Ramona is also a nationally recognized speaker and trainer on placemaking, customer experience, and business resilience. Her work emphasizes creative, community-led approaches to boosting local economies and supporting under-resourced entrepreneurs.
Patty Hayes
Patty Hayes is a public health leader with more than 35 years of experience in health policy, advocacy, and community health programming. She served as Director of Public Health – Seattle & King County, gaining national recognition for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her career includes senior roles in nonprofit and state health agencies, with a focus on prevention, trauma-informed care, and systems integration. Patty has been honored for her contributions to public service and equity-focused health leadership.
