Kris Larsen

IDA Toronto
Written by Chip Chip

Kris Larson is President and CEO of Central Houston, Inc., where he works with business, civic, and community leaders to advance the continued growth and vitality of Downtown Houston and the city’s urban core. As former Chair of the International Downtown Association and a longtime leader in downtown and place management, his work spans economic development, public space, transportation, planning, advocacy, and the partnerships needed to build strong and resilient city centers.

Kris Larsen

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Field Guide
Tim Tompkins
Tim Tompkins

Tim Tompkins is a longtime leader in urban place management and the founder of SharedCity, a consultancy focused on helping cities and downtown organizations create more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient places. Previously President of the Times Square Alliance, his work spans public space, economic development, arts and culture, placemaking, and the evolving role of downtowns in civic life.

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Kathleen Rawson
Kathleen Rawson

Kathleen Rawson is a place management professional with more than 30 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, public space management, placemaking, and hospitality. Rawson currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer for The Hollywood Partnership, the non-profit organization that manages the Hollywood Entertainment District, including the world-renowned Walk of Fame. Before her new role in Hollywood, Rawson served as CEO of Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM, Inc.) from 1997 to 2022.

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Shane Zahn
Shane Zahn

Shane Zahn is Senior Director of Community Safety for the Minneapolis Downtown Council and Downtown Improvement District, where he has helped shape downtown safety strategy since the DID’s creation in 2009.

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International Downtown Association
International Downtown Association

The International Downtown Association (IDA) is the leading global membership organization for people and organizations working to manage, strengthen, and shape downtowns and urban districts. Founded in 1954, IDA connects the growing field of urban place management, including downtown associations, business improvement districts, public agencies, and other place-based organizations.

Through conferences, research, professional development, and peer networks, IDA helps practitioners share strategies for economic development, public-space management, planning, events, organizational leadership, and advocacy—work that happens where policy, culture, commerce, and everyday urban life meet.

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Chip Chip
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