Urban Planning Director at Neighborhood Strategies
Marc is a seasoned planner and director with more than 22 years of experience in urban place management and city planning. As Urban Planning Director at Neighborhood Strategies, he leads high-impact community revitalization efforts, focusing on regeneration strategies, financial incentives, and implementation-driven planning. Marc brings extensive experience advancing community activation initiatives such as special improvement districts, placemaking programs, Main Street efforts, and historic preservation across both urban and small-town contexts. Previously Executive Director of the Capital Crossroads and Discovery Special Improvement Districts in Columbus, he developed and implemented programs that strengthened downtown vitality and business support. His leadership includes distributing $2 million in small business grants and launching initiatives to support downtown businesses and mobility programs including the area’s first bike share program. Marc has also contributed to local planning and design decision-making through service on the City of Columbus Transportation and Pedestrian Commission and the Victorian Village Architectural Review Board. With a Master’s in Public Administration and extensive board experience, he is a recognized expert in Business/Special Improvement Districts, Downtown Development Associations, Urban Renewal Areas, and other initiatives that foster vibrant, thriving communities.
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