Technical Assistance Panels (TAP)

Since 1947, ULI has harnessed the multidisciplinary expertise of its members to help communities solve challenging land use, development, and redevelopment issues on behalf of government agencies and community-based nonprofits. At the local level, this is accomplished through a Technical Assistance Panel (TAP). ULI serves as the “honest broker,” bringing all stakeholders together in an environment free of politics and preconceptions.

Technical Assistance Panels (TAPs) provide expert, multidisciplinary advice to local governments, public agencies, and nonprofit organizations facing complex land use and real estate issues in Virginia. Drawing from our seasoned professional membership base, ULI Virginia offers objective and responsible guidance on a variety of land use and real estate issues ranging from site-specific projects to public policy questions.

Who are the Panelists?

A TAP consists of unpaid volunteers from the ULI members in the Virginia District Council chosen specifically for each assignment. Panelists usually include at least one for-profit or nonprofit developer, designer and/or planner, market and/or financial analyst, and a regulatory expert. Panelists with a potential conflict of interest will be deferred for other client opportunities.

If you’re a ULI Virginia member interested becoming a TAP panelist, please contact Sal Musarra.

We leverage the collective expertise of our members to provide a unique, market-based perspective on a broad range of issues including:

Strategies for revitalizing corridors or specific properties;
Analyzing the reuse potential of existing properties;
Identifying key economic and land use issues relating to public/private land use – situations;
Evaluating specific development and land proposals or issues;
Market feasibility analysis, financial structuring, and more.

The applicant provides key questions for the Panel to address, assembles relevant background information and resources, arranges for stakeholder interviews and site logistics. At least 12 weeks’ advance planning from final scope development is required. ULI Virginia assembles a Panel comprised of 5-7 senior-level members representing the specific land use disciplines needed for each assignment. Over an intensive 2-day working session, panelists tour the study area, interview stakeholders, and work collaboratively to produce preliminary findings and recommendations which are presented at the conclusion of the TAP in either a private or public forum. A complete report follows within about two months with detailed recommendations.