Internationally recognized urban planner will deliver a keynote address at the Downtown NJ Annual Conference this week

James Rojas, an internationally recognized urban planner, community activist, educator and artist, will deliver the keynote address at the 2024 Downtown New Jersey Annual Conference on December 5 in Montclair.

The day-long event, held at the Mezzanine in Montclair, is intended to be the state’s premier gathering of downtown government professionals, urban planners, business leaders and community representatives and will provide an unprecedented opportunity to explore best practices and innovative strategies for downtown revitalization.

Rojas has hosted public engagement workshops in the United States, Mexico, Canada, Europe, and South America throughout his career, leading over 500 workshops and building more than 100 interactive models.

During his keynote, Rojas will share his unique approach to enhancing high streets through sensory experiences. His hands-on session will guide participants through personal discovery and connection, fostering relationships while uncovering the intangible experiences that Main Street offers its visitors – and vice versa.

“This is an incredible opportunity to learn from a visionary who is transforming urban spaces into thriving, inclusive communities,” said DNJ President Vanessa Quijano. “James Rojas’ keynote will inspire attendees to view Main Streets through the lens of connection, community and creativity.”

The conference program also includes a series of enriching panel discussions, including:

• Balancing growth and equity: Gentrification, Homelessness and Affordable Housing: This panel will examine strategies to sustainably manage urban growth while considering affordability and social justice.
• Strengthening local ties: Building Strategic Partnerships with Chambers of Commerce: Participants will learn how downtown districts can build collaborative partnerships to support economic growth and small businesses.
• Downtown Inclusivity in Action: A Blueprint for Connected Communities: Featuring case studies that show how events, arts programs, and diverse developments promote inclusivity and economic growth.

“The 2024 DNJ Conference will provide attendees the opportunity to not only learn from experts like our keynote speaker James Rojas, but also connect with colleagues to develop actionable plans for their communities,” said DNJ Executive Director Natalie Pineiro.

For more information and to register, click here.