Building on the success of ULI NEXT’s 2024 and 2025 Peers & Careers programs, the 2026 series will focus on two of Richmond’s most transformative downtown infrastructure investments: the continued improvements to Brown’s Island and the Mayo Bridge Park  Projects.

This four-part, in-person program creates a platform for peer-to-peer learning among mid-career real estate professionals while examining how public infrastructure investments support private development, strengthen community identity, and align complex public and private interests. Participants will gain a comprehensive, real-world understanding of how catalytic infrastructure projects move from vision to execution—and how they can spur long-term economic and community benefits.

Program Overview
The biweekly Tuesday morning series (8:30–10:30 a.m.), running from February 3 through March 17, combines educational sessions with practitioner perspectives . Together, the series provide historical context, technical insight, funding and financing strategies, and an examination of economic and neighborhood impacts—particularly for the Shockoe and Manchester areas.

Program Sessions
Session 1: Project Background, Vision, and Planning – Brown’s Island

Date: Tuesday, February 3, 8:30 - 10:30 am
This session sets the stage by exploring the vision, goals, and redevelopment process for Brown’s Island. Participants will hear from planners and stakeholder groups and learn how the project builds upon the island’s rich history, supports Richmond’s long-term vision, and brings together multiple funding sources, stakeholders, and partners to deliver a transformational public space.

Session 2: Project Background, Vision, and Planning – Mayo Bridge Park

Date: Tues, February 17, 8:30 - 10:30 am
Focusing on the Mayo Bridge Park Project, this session examines the interdisciplinary planning process behind restoring and modernizing a critical piece of Richmond’s infrastructure. City officials and stakeholder groups will highlight how disinvestment in the public realm can hinder private investment—and how strategic infrastructure improvements can promote connectivity, sustainability, and growth.

Session 3: Design and Implementation

Date: Tues, March 3, 8:30 - 10:30 am
This session dives into the collaborative design and construction process for both Brown’s Island and the Mayo Bridge Park. Participants will hear from the engineers, landscape architects, and architects  about how these public investments are shaping housing, identity, and economic opportunity along Richmond’s historic waterfront.

Session 4: Anticipated Economic and Fiscal Impacts

Date: Tues, March 17, 8:30 - 10:30 am
Participants will hear from Richmond EDA and local developers to explore how public infrastructure investment can catalyze private development and broader economic growth. The session will cover the fundamentals of economic and fiscal impact analysis and the City’s role in ensuring that public investments generate sustainable, community-supportive outcomes.

Program Takeaways
Participants will engage directly with developers, local officials, engineers, architects, and economic development professionals, gaining practical insight into:

• How major infrastructure projects align with Richmond’s historical context and future vision

• Funding and financing tools for public infrastructure, including alternative approaches

• The roles and responsibilities of public, private, and interdisciplinary partners

• How public investment can lead to increased private development and generate long-term economic value

By the end of the series, participants will leave with a stronger understanding of best practices for public-private collaboration and a clearer picture of how infrastructure investment shapes development, community identity, and regional growth.
Cost
Members: 
$160 for the full five-session program ($40 x4), includes all materials and refreshments
Non-Members: 
$320 for the full five-session program ($80 x4), includes all materials and refreshments
Program Testimonials
“This was a great program to see the big picture of development. A lot of times we are secularized to our little piece, and it was great to hear more details on things I have only heard of.”
“As a career switcher new to all things real estate development, this program really helped connect the dots and pull back the curtain on a complex, dynamic, and exciting process.”
“I have a much clearer picture of the people, resources, and conditions needed to bring a project to life. The educational & networking value of each session is well worth the cost.”
“I've enjoyed the topics and sessions and learning from other professionals in different practice areas.”