Community Activation Director at Neighborhood Strategies
As Community Activation Director at Neighborhood Strategies, Lisa leads projects focused on placemaking, public space management, and community activation. With more than 30 years of nonprofit and public-sector experience, she brings expertise in establishing and advising special improvement districts while supporting community planning initiatives, redevelopment strategies, and stakeholder engagement. Her extensive experience as Deputy Director of Operations & Advocacy for the Capital Crossroads and Discovery Special Improvement Districts has uniquely shaped her approach as a community planner. Overseeing safety, outreach, beautification, and public space operations across downtown Columbus, she has developed a deep understanding of how policy, partnerships, and place-based strategies intersect to support thriving community environments. Recognized nationally for her ability to coordinate law enforcement, social service agencies, businesses, and residents, she applies this experience to develop practical, equitable strategies that enhance public spaces and support thriving downtown and neighborhood districts.
Special Improvement Districts (SIDs) are not just funding tools—they’re delivery systems that help neighborhoods consistently bring their revitalization visions to life. This session explores how SIDs support community health, safety, and vibrancy through coordinated services, placemaking, and partnerships. While many communities, particularly those with Main Street programs, have a strong vision for revitalization, they often face challenges related to consistent funding and implementation capacity. SIDs offer a structured, sustainable way to deliver day-to-day services that reinforce those efforts. Drawing on real-world examples from districts across Ohio, the session will highlight how SIDs enhance both the physical environment and lived experiences of residents, employees, and visitors, while working alongside existing revitalization and preservation efforts. Key Topics: o How SIDs contribute to perceived and actual safety (clean + safe programs, ambassador services) o The role of maintenance and environmental quality in supporting public health and preservation o How SIDs reinforce and extend Main Street and downtown programming efforts o Leveraging partnerships with local governments, Main Street organizations, and private stakeholders to encourage neighborhood vibrancy o Translating revitalization vision into consistent, visible outcomes