Detroit to Host 2026 International Placemaking Conference, Showcasing Urban Resilience

Project for Public Spaces has announced Detroit as the host city for the 5th International Placemaking Conference scheduled for June 24-26, 2026, with the Downtown Detroit Partnership serving as co-host. The conference will bring together over 500 public space professionals from around the world, including urban planners, designers, public officials, place managers, and researchers. This global gathering emphasizes hands-on learning and innovative social events while leaving behind a public space legacy in host cities.

The conference theme, "From Recovery to Resilience through Placemaking," reflects Detroit's remarkable journey from facing severe urban challenges including economic decline, depopulation, vacancy, and bankruptcy to emerging with significant momentum. Detroit's experience serves as a powerful demonstration of how community-powered spaces can help cities address contemporary challenges. As communities worldwide struggle with maintaining and enhancing social life in public realms, this international event aims to serve as a catalyst for innovative, inclusive, and adaptive placemaking strategies.

Nate Storring, co-executive director for Project for Public Spaces, expressed enthusiasm about bringing placemakers to learn from Detroit's groundbreaking efforts. "Detroit is a city where Project for Public Spaces has deep roots and active collaborations, from Campus Martius Park to the Joe Louis Greenway," Storring noted. The organization looks forward to working with longtime partners at Downtown Detroit Partnership to showcase how placemaking can address significant community challenges.

David Cowan, chief public spaces officer at the Downtown Detroit Partnership, emphasized the honor of hosting the event and the opportunity to showcase Detroit's transformation. "This is a unique chance to highlight how collaboration between the public and private sectors is transforming public spaces and strengthening community connections," Cowan stated. The partnership manages, programs, and stewards 18 parks and public spaces throughout Downtown Detroit, with more information available at https://www.DowntownDetroit.org.

Detroit exemplifies placemaking's transformative power through numerous successful projects. Campus Martius Park, named by USA Today as the "No. 1 Public Square in America," demonstrates how strategic urban revitalization drives civic pride and economic resurgence. The Joe Louis Greenway, a 27.5-mile multi-use trail connecting over 23 neighborhoods, reflects Detroit's commitment to mobility and neighborhood connectivity. Historic sites like Michigan Central Station have been reimagined as vibrant civic spaces, while Belle Isle provides a 982-acre natural retreat within the city.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer highlighted the state's recognition of placemaking's importance, noting historic investments to grow Michigan's economy and revitalize communities. Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan emphasized the city's embrace of placemaking across communities, from the international riverfront to downtown and new neighborhood Arts Alleys. Project for Public Spaces and Downtown Detroit Partnership will open the call for proposals in October 2025, with registration available in the new year. Interested participants can stay informed by visiting https://www.placemakingweek.org and signing up for Project for Public Spaces' newsletter, the Placemaking Roundup. Additional information about Project for Public Spaces is available at https://www.PPS.org.