Building Downtown LA For The Future

Building the Partnerships Downtown LA Needs Now Downtown Los Angeles is entering a defining new chapter. With major investment, new development, expanding transit, and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, the question is no longer simply how Downtown recovers, but how the public and private sectors work together to build a more connected, vibrant and economically resilient city center. On October 29, 2026, from 5–8 PM, Community Collective and Gensler⁠ will convene an intimate strategic briefing in Downtown Los Angeles bringing together leaders shaping the future of the region’s urban core. The conversation will feature Kelly Farrell, Managing Director and Principal at Gensler; Marcel Porras of LA Metro; Amanda Daflos of the City of Los Angeles; Nella McOsker, President & CEO of Central City Association; and Nick Griffin, Executive Vice President of the Downtown LA Alliance. Farrell leads Gensler’s Los Angeles office, while Griffin and McOsker are actively engaged in Downtown’s economic development and growth conversations. Together, the group will explore the infrastructure, investment, mobility, development, placemaking and civic partnerships needed to unlock Downtown LA’s next era. The discussion will look beyond individual projects to examine how government, business, transportation, design and community leadership can align around a shared vision for Downtown—and how Los Angeles can turn the momentum surrounding major global events into lasting economic and civic impact. Hosted at Gensler in Downtown Los Angeles, this invitation-focused gathering is designed to be more than a panel. It is a candid conversation among decision-makers, stakeholders and community leaders about what Downtown needs now, what is already working, and where greater collaboration can move Los Angeles forward. Gensler’s LA campus itself is located at 500 S. Figueroa Street and was designed as a creative workplace and community gathering environment. Thursday, October 29, 2026 | 5–8 PMGensler | Downtown Los AngelesPresented by Community Collective × Gensler Building a brighter Downtown, together.