Practical strategies to revitalize downtown and attract investment

Turn Vacant Buildings Into Active Space

In this on-demand webinar, SAFEbuilt planning experts share how cities are updating zoning, reusing underutilized buildings, and creating vibrant downtowns.

You’ll gain clear steps to drive growth, improve walkability, and bring residents and businesses back to your core.

Ready To Re-Energize Your Downtown?

What You'll Learn

Clear, actionable ideas for city managers, community development directors, and building officials.

People downtown at market

Updating Codes To Support Growth

Targeted zoning changes that open the door for mixed use and housing.

Reusing Vacant and Underused Space

Strategies to convert older buildings into active housing and retail.

Strengthening Walkability & Public Space

Design improvements that draw people downtown and support local business.

Guiding Housing in the Right Areas

Clear standards for density, height, and placement where services can handle growth.

Identifying Funding and Incentives

Options that make downtown redevelopment realistic for cities and developers.

Engaging Stakeholders Effectively

Approaches to build support while addressing concerns about parking, character, and open space.

Featuring Your Hosts

Meet the SAFEbuilt experts sharing their insights in this session:
Jim Hickey

Jim Hickey, AICP

Director of Planning Services, SAFEbuilt

Jim brings decades of municipal planning experience, helping communities modernize zoning codes, streamline permitting, and manage development pressure effectively.

David-Dixon

Dave Dixon, AICP

Principal Planner, SAFEbuilt

Dave Dixon brings more than a decade of experience helping communities across the U.S. and Canada shape their future. His work spans comprehensive and redevelopment planning, urban design, site planning, and land use code updates, with a strong specialty in GIS.