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The COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc on our downtowns and business communities. Those who made a concerted effort to adapt and proactively support their small businesses have fared better than communities that took a laissez faire approach. Learn how five different communities – the City of New Brunswick, the Town of Clinton, Union Township, City of Summit, and the City of Lambertville – reinvented their downtowns to help their business communities survive. Find out about initiatives that worked, and some that did not.

Panelists:

  • Nancy Adams, CMSM, Executive Director, Summit Downtown, Inc.
  • Emily Goldman, PP, AICP, Senior Associate, Clarke Caton Hintz
  • Janice Kovach, Mayor, Town of Clinton
  • Courtenay Mercer, PP, AICP, Executive Director, Downtown New Jersey
  • Carlos Sanchez, Economic Development Director, Township of Union

This webinar is organized by DNJ as part of the 2021 NJ Planning & Redevelopment Conference. Video of this session is only available to registered attendees of that event.

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2025 dnj retail trends

Retail Reset: Trends Shaping the Future of Downtowns

June 26, 2025 – Join us for a dynamic panel discussion featuring experts in development, retail strategy, design, and dealmaking. This session will explore emerging retail trends impacting walkable downtowns, strategies for attracting and retaining tenants, and the evolving relationship between restaurants and retail.

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