The Neighborhood Design Center (NDC) invites you to join The Vision is Yours, a transformative regional placemaking forum taking place June 5-6, June 2025.
This multi-day gathering will convene urban planners, community leaders, designers, artists, and public officials to explore innovative approaches to reimagining public spaces across Maryland and the Washington, D.C. area.
From inspiring keynotes and hands-on workshops, to lively networking events and community walks showcasing groundbreaking projects, the forum will spark the radical imagination needed to shape a brighter, more inclusive future with local communities.
Building on the successes of International Placemaking Week 2024, this forum blends immersive activities, hands-on learning, and strategic networking opportunities:
We’re looking for creative, thoughtful, and impactful contributions that will spark co-learning, innovation, and connection.
Hosting the 4th International Placemaking Week in Baltimore in partnership with the renowned Project for Public Spaces showcased our region’s deep enthusiasm for place-based work and community-driven design.
The sold-out event drew 600 attendees, including 250 from across Maryland, with additional participants from DC, PA and Northern Virginia.
Feedback from our constituents underscored the growing demand for connection and knowledge exchange within this thriving sector, confirming the need for ongoing networking and collaboration.
In fact, in a survey circulated to local Placemaking Week participants, 70% said that networking and peer connection activities have a high potential to advance their place-based projects or placemaking practice.
“Connecting with other practitioners for ideas and insights is truly valuable, especially in a time when our communities are experiencing significant challenges.”
—Anna McCorvey, Senior Equitable Development Manager, Building Bridges Across the River - 11th Street Bridge Park
Making the Case! Securing Funding, Measuring Impact, and Advocating for Place-Based Work
We’ll hear from practitioners, community leaders, and funders about strategies for developing impactful projects, securing financial support, and effectively measuring and communicating results to sustain momentum.
Creative Placemaking
When co-created with local communities, the arts can transform spaces into hubs of joy and celebration, foster connections among people, build advocacy for change, and help heal community trauma. This theme will explore how to embed artists and creative practice into placemaking to amplify its social and cultural benefits.
Engaging Community for Impact and Sustainability
We know that local communities are the experts of the places they live, work, and play in. This theme will highlight proven methods for centering local voices, fostering equitable engagement, and building the trust needed to co-create spaces that reflect and uplift community identity through and beyond implementation.
Longevity, Maintenance, and Cultural Stewardship
Placemaking doesn’t stop at the ribbon cutting. We’ll discuss strategies to ensure the sustainability of place-based work through long-term maintenance, cultural stewardship, and fostering local ownership that honors and preserves community heritage.
By sponsoring The Vision is Yours, you will help foster connections, spark innovation, and build the foundation for a more inclusive and dynamic future.
Questions?
Contact NDC Deputy Director Briony Hynson
bhynson@ndc-md.org
301-830-5219
Media Contact
Contact Sara Warfield, on behalf of NDC
Sara@SaraWarfieldCommunications.com
410-952-1271
Receive event updates!
Subscribe to NDC’s mailing list and follow us on social media for the latest regional placemaking forum updates!
