2025 Conference Program
We are thrilled to announce our 2025 Conference Theme:
"The Times Are A-Changin': Navigating Virginia's Evolving Planning Landscape"
The Times are A-Changin' and Virginia planners are at the forefront in addressing pressing challenges and emerging opportunities throughout the Commonwealth. As Virginia's communities grapple with fluctuating population patterns, shifting economic trends, climate resilience, housing affordability, political uncertainty, emerging technologies, and evolving transportation needs, planners must adapt to an increasingly complex and dynamic environment. The Chapter's 2025 conference seeks to explore innovative solutions, best practices, and forward-thinking strategies to help communities thrive amidst these changes. We encourage session proposals that highlight practical case studies, policy advancements, community engagement approaches, and cutting-edge planning tools that can shape the future of Virginia’s cities, towns, and rural areas. Join us in sharing your insights and expertise to help chart a path forward in these transformative times.
The conference program will delve into these varied topics and include a variety of quick takes, lectures, and deep dives.
Sessions will be reviewed and approved for credit and CM Credit details will be provided as we lead up to the Conference.
2025 Conference Program Schedule
**Please note, programming time is subject to change.
Also there are some networking and other sessions that have yet to be scheduled, so please check back frequently if there is a session you don't see listed.
Please feel free to reach out if there is a networking opportunity you don't see listed that you want considered as part of the 2025 program.
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Expanded information about session descriptions and speakers can be found below. If you have any questions about the program or can't find details about the program, please do not hesitate to reach out to APA Virginia staff, info@apavirginia.com
We are actively updating this page as we confirm approved sessions.
We encourage you to check back in the coming days!
Sunday, July 20
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
APA Virginia Board Meeting
*For APA VA Board Members Only
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Registration
Sunday Afternoon Mobile Tours
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Tides Baseball Game
Join your APA colleagues for a day at the ballpark as the Norfolk Tides take on Syracuse. Parking is limited so enjoy a free ferry ride on the HRT Ferry or use free Tide Light Rail to reach the game!
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
*Return time tentative
Bricks of Time: Olde Towne Portsmouth Walk
2 CM | #9313983
Step into Olde Towne Portsmouth, a 20-block National Register Historic District cradling Crawford Bay, where history whispers through one of the densest collections of period architecture between Alexandria and Charleston. Recognized in the City’s Zoning Ordinance and safeguarded by a Historic Preservation Commission, this vibrant residential enclave dazzles with its Federal and Greek Revival townhouses, accented by a rich tapestry of post-Civil War and early-twentieth-century homes. On this engaging two-hour walking tour, uncover the stories behind these architectural gems, from their origins to their preservation, set against the backdrop of a neighborhood that pulses with historical significance. Pause at the iconic Trinity Episcopal Church, a cornerstone of local heritage, and delve into how the City’s innovative planning and zoning strategies—through ordinances, commissions, and community vision—ensure Olde Towne’s legacy endures. This is a journey through time, where every brick and cornice tell a tale of resilience and renewal.
Karen Washburn
Portsmouth History Tour Guide
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
*Return time tentative
Kayaking at Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve
Join us for a relaxing paddle along Hoffler Creek as we explore the natural beauty and rich history of the preserve. This guided tour offers an opportunity to connect with nature while learning about the ecological importance of the creek, the wildlife that call it home, and the vital role it plays in supporting the surrounding community.
Topics will include:
● The history of the land and its conservation efforts
● The ecology of Hoffler Creek
● An overview of local wildlife and their habitats
● The creek’s role in supporting biodiversity and community well-being
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
*Return time tentative
Zoning the Jackpot: Rivers Casino Portsmouth Tour for Planners
3 CM | #9313985
Join us for an exclusive front and back of the house tour of Rivers Casino Portsmouth, tailored for urban and regional planners eager to explore the nexus of economic development, urban design, and the planning processes that brought this project to life. Begin with the dynamic front-of-house experience, featuring a 50,000-square-foot gaming floor with 1,448 slot machines, 57 table games, and a cutting-edge BetRivers Sportsbook, complemented by top-tier dining options like Admiral’s.
Melissa Ramsey
Rivers Casino Portsmouth
Lisa Lucas-Burke
Lucas Lodge LLC
Julie Chop, CZA, CTM
Portsmouth Department of Economic Development
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Leadership Academy Class*
*Exclusive to students currently enrolled in the class
5:30 - 7:30 PM *
Welcome to Portsmouth Reception
*Time Tentative
Monday, July 21
7:30 - 8:30 AM
Registration & Breakfast
7:30 - 8:30 AM
Leadership Academy Alumni Breakfast
8:30 - 9:45 AM
Welcome & Opening Keynote
1.25 CM | #9313995
More information about session coming soon!
The Honorable Shannon E. Glover
Mayor of Portsmouth
Karen Wolf, FAICP
AICP Commission
Sue Schwartz, FAICP
American Planning Association
Monday Morning Mobile Tours
8:30 AM - 12:15 PM
Port of Virginia Tour
Join us for an up-close mobile tour of two of the terminals that make up America’s Most Modern Gateway at The Port of Virginia. We’ll visit Portsmouth Marine Terminal which serves as the staging port for the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project as well as the container terminal, Virginia International Gateway. We’ll hear about how this economic engine drives commerce to and through Virginia and the integral role planning plays in supporting the Port’s growth.
About: “The Port of Virginia is “America’s Most Modern Gateway.” The Port of Virginia is more than a traditional port or terminal network. We are a modern gateway to any market, powered by world-class operations, continuous investments, infrastructure and investment partnerships and a dedication to service that port users can count on for years to come."
Note: All participants will need to bring a government issued ID.
8:30 AM - 12:15 PM
Hampton Roads Transit Tour
3 CM | #9313987
Sail, ride, and walk with Hampton Roads Transit as you make your way to the Norfolk Tide light rail facility! Participants of this mobile tour will ride the Elizabeth River Ferry, catch the Tide light rail, and walk no more than two miles through downtown Norfolk and along the Elizabeth River Trail to get a behind the scenes tour of Virginia's first light rail system, the Tide. Along the way, Ray Amoruso (Chief Planning and Development Officer) and Sibyl Pappas (Chief Engineering and Facilities Officer), will discuss the history of the light rail and ferry and the future of transit in Hampton Roads. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and dress for the weather."
Sibyl Pappas
Hampton Roads Transit
Ray Amoruso
Hampton Roads Transit
8:30 AM - 12:15 PM
Chesapeake Industrial Waterfront
2.50 CM | #9313986
A guided boat tour of Chesapeake's industrial waterfront will offer a unique perspective of the Elizabeth River and its ongoing transformation. Participants will learn about the Chesapeake's award-winning Industrial Waterfront Study and explore key industrial sites along the river, observing future development sites, existing industrial uses, and planned resiliency efforts. The tour highlights the interplay between commerce, community, and coastal resiliency efforts in this vital tertiary port.
Jimmy McNamara
Chesapeake City, Virginia
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
*ALL DAY
CPAP Project
5 CM | #9313758
Join Community Planning Assistance Program (CPAP) Chair Alan Simpson and representatives from Surry County for an immersive mobile tour focused on the area surrounding the Town of Surry. This tour will examine redevelopment opportunities and corridor improvements along Route 31, with an emphasis on bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, housing development potential, and local economic development initiatives. Participants will engage in on-the-ground assessments and collaborative discussions with local stakeholders. Insights gathered will inform a concise, actionable report synthesizing community input, documenting current conditions, and offering preliminary policy and planning recommendations. This effort supports Surry County’s broader goals for strategic growth, improved connectivity, and enhanced quality of life.
Renee Chapline
Surry County, Virginia
Horace Wade III, AICP
Surry County, Virginia
Alan Simpson, AICP
EPR, P.C.
9:45 - 10:00 AM
Networking and Transition Break
10:00 - 11:00 AM | Breakout Sessions
"Navigating the Noise: Smart Planning for Community-Centric Data Centers and
Energy Facilities Development"
Environment, Sustainability, and Resiliency
1 CM | #9313444
The increasing demand for data centers and energy facilities has raised concerns about their noise impact on nearby communities. This session will explore noise-related challenges and effective abatement strategies, using real-world case studies to highlight best practices. Topics include advanced acoustic studies, mitigation techniques, and the integration of community feedback. The session will also discuss state-level regulations and their implications for local planning. Attendees will gain tools and knowledge to address noise issues proactively, supporting smart planning and sustainable development that balances industry needs with public concerns.
Courtney Powell, AICP
WGI
Jack Cramer
ATCS
Nicola Ianeselli
WGI
"Bridging Departments: A Rural Approach to Short-Term Rental Compliance"
Housing, Community, and Economic Development
1 CM | #9313445
Shenandoah County discovered over 500 unpermitted short-term rentals (STRs) operating in its community—yet only 40 had applied for permits. To address this, the county launched an online STR permitting system that streamlined coordination between the Commissioner of Revenue, Economic Development, and Community Development Departments. By funding third-party compliance oversight through an STR zoning permit fee, the county ensured enforcement costs were covered by STR operators, not taxpayers. This session will explore how localities can integrate compliance, tax collection, zoning, and health inspections into an effective regulatory framework. Attendees will gain insights into STR enforcement strategies, interdepartmental coordination, and the broader housing market impacts of STRs in both rural and urban communities.
Lemuel Hancock, MLA
Shenandoah County
Missy Hockman
Shenandoah County
Jenna French
Shenandoah County
"Engaging the Next Generation: Youth Participation in Planning and Environmental Projects"
Public Engagement
1 CM | 1 EQ | #9313736
Youth engagement is a powerful tool for shaping resilient, connected communities. This session explores how planners can integrate youth participation into decision-making processes through structured engagement strategies, hands-on activities, and real-world case studies. Attendees will learn how to facilitate youth involvement in projects such as trail development, public space reimagining, and climate resilience planning. Through a combination of lecture and interactive exercises, participants will gain practical tools to design meaningful engagement initiatives that go beyond token involvement. This session, led by professionals from EPR PC, equips planners with proven methods to create lasting youth participation that strengthens planning efforts and fosters long-term civic engagement.
Amanda Poncy, AICP
EPR, PC
Will Cockrell, AICP
EPR, PC
Tyler Hinkle, AICP
EPR, PC
"Next Stop: The 2026 Virginia State Rail Plan"
Transportation
1 CM | #9313713
This session will provide an intermediate to deep dive on the requirements for a federally mandated state rail plan. It will use the 2022 Virginia State Rail plan and recent rail plans from other states as examples. Additionally, it will detail how Virginia agencies, led by DRPT, will draft the 2026 State Rail Plan. There will be a focus on the use of GIS Storymaps and other GIS applications to build and share the plan. If a longer session is selected, I would like to dedicate some time to open discussion around topics, issues, and data they would like to see covered in the plan. This part is envisioned as a collaborative session to introduce the Virginia planning community to the rail plan and lead to further collaboration as the drafting of the plan kicks off. This session will give an overview of the federally mandated State Rail Plan process, a review of the 2022 State Rail Plan, and a look ahead at the path to creating the 2026 Virginia State Rail Plan. Attendees will learn about the FRA requirements for a state rail plan as well as how they can utilize resources from past and future Virginia plans. If time permits, there will be discussion about topics that should be included in the 2026 plan and how people can participate in upcoming public outreach for the plan.
Taylor Holden
Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT)
"Resume Clinic/Mentoring"
Networking/Upskilling
More information coming soon!
11:00 - 11:15 AM
Networking and Transition Break
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM | Breakout Sessions
"Let's Go BOCO: You're Guide to Outdoor Recreation in Botetourt County"
Environment, Sustainability, and Resiliency
1 CM | #9313714
Join us for an in-depth look at Let’s Go BOCO, a new web-based tool designed to enhance access to outdoor recreation opportunities in Botetourt County. This session will explore the tool’s functionality, its role in connecting residents and visitors to local outdoor resources, and the public engagement strategies used to introduce it. Attendees will learn how community feedback shaped improvements to Let’s Go BOCO and gain insight into the development process using ArcExperience. We will also discuss how ArcExperience can be leveraged by other localities to create customized, visually engaging, and user-friendly digital tools for public engagement and information sharing. Whether you’re a planner, GIS professional, or community leader, this session will provide practical insights for using interactive mapping to enhance local recreation and resource accessibility.
Matthew Lindsay, CZO
Botetourt County
"Cohort-Based Community Capacity Building"
Housing, Community, and Economic Development
1 CM | #9313742
This session is relevant in providing examples for early stage Main Street efforts to build an organizational foundation that is inclusive at all levels. VMS staff will introduce the Mobilizing program, discuss how they are engaging their communities and implementing the Mobilizing curriculum, with escalating services that build on each other. Both urban and rural communities are participating and VMS staff will compare and contrast different typologies and points of constraint. Portsmouth, Va. is currently enrolled in the 2025-2026 Mobilizing Main Street cohort.
Courtney Mailey
DHCD
"Suffolk's Comprehensive Plan Update: Navigating Community Divisions"
Public Engagement
1 CM | #9313738
Suffolk 2045: the City of Suffolk Comprehensive Plan is the fourth in a series of plans adopted by City Council over a 25 year period that are based on a focused growth approach to managing land use and development. Within about 6 months of launching Suffolk 2045 it became clear that the level of public interest in this update and the degree of division within the community around comprehensive planning issues would be very different from previous updates. Staff of the Planning and Community Development Department will present an overview of Suffolk 2045 which was adopted by City Council in December 2024. The overview will identify key policy issues, community engagement strategies and challenges, as well as some of the key recommendations and priorities being considered for implementation. Staff will also identify some of the factors that they believe may have contributed to making this a more challenging environment for preparing and adopting a comprehensive plan update. The main goal of the session is to encourage a discussion about the evolving landscape for local government planning and how best to "navigate the changin' times".
W. Keith Cannady, AICP
City of Suffolk
Kevin Wyne, AICP
City of Suffolk
Meg Pittenger
City of Suffolk
"Planning for Transportation in a Growing Diverse Community"
Transportation
1 CM | #9313750
The intent of this session is to discuss Prince William County's Transportation Planning efforts based on recent changes to the County's Planning documents to include the recent adoption of the Prince William County Comprehensive Plan in 2022 to include the addition of the use of Transects to allow to plan for different densities with associated level of mobility improvements. Prince William County is the second largest County and the most diverse County in the Commonwealth. As a result, planners are tasked with responding to changing land uses and transportation needs throughout the County.
Paolo J Belita, AICP, PTP, RSP1
Prince William County Department of Transportation
Alex Venegas, AICP, CPM, CZA
Prince William County Planning Office
Kevin Wyrauch, AICP
Prince William County Department of Transportation
"Making Memorable PowerPoints"
Networking/Upskilling
1 CM | #9313753
Using core principles of cognitive retention, design your presentations to be memorable and make an impact on your audience. As planners, our presentations to various boards, governing bodies, stakeholders and the public can include life changing decisions. Even when discussing important and impactful topics, everyone’s brain is subject to distractions. Make sure your audiences’ brains are focused on you and your message, and not focused on all the distractions life offers. Discover how subtle formatting changes in PowerPoint can make a big difference in capturing the attention of your audience.
Michael Todd, AICP
Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation
12:15 - 1:15 PM
Networking Lunch & Chapter Sections Networking Lunch
1:15 - 2:15 PM
Economic Development Plenary Session: Building Partnership and Economic Prosperity
1 CM | #9313996
This plenary session brings together key leaders and experts from the Hampton Roads region and GO Virginia Region 5 to explore the intersection of economic development and urban planning. Panelists will discuss regional strategies for fostering innovation, investment, workforce development, and sustainable growth. Attendees will gain insights into collaborative initiatives that are shaping the region’s future, addressing challenges, and unlocking opportunities to drive long-term economic vitality across Southeastern Virginia.
Panelists:
Nancy L. Grden
Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable
Douglas L. Smith
Hampton Roads Alliance
Brian Donahue
Portsmouth Economic Development
Moderator:
John Provo
Virginia Tech's Center for Economic & Community Engagement
2:15 - 2:30 PM
Networking & Transition Break
Monday Afternoon Mobile Tours
2:15 - 5:00 PM | Mobile Tours
High Street Revival: Adaptive Use in Downtown Portsmouth
2 CM | #9313990
Guided walking tour telling the story of the evolution of High St. Portsmouth from a seaport to a 21st Century downtown. The tour highlights the City's efforts to preserve this National Register Historic District through its planning and historic preservation program while supporting new uses that support modern living.
William Landfair, AICP
City of Portsmouth, Planning Department
Suping Li
GARC Architecture
Elizabeth River Trail: Norfolk's Waterfront Reimagined
2 CM | #9313989
Take a walk through the heart of Norfolk's iconic waterfront on the Elizabeth River Trail (ERT). Once a forgotten industrial rail line, the ERT has grown into a 10.5-mile urban trail connecting 28 neighborhoods and redefining how cities build trails that center people, place, and possibility. What began as a grassroots effort to reclaim a working waterfront has evolved into a bold vision of resilient infrastructure, inclusive design, and public space with purpose- and the journey isn't over yet.
This guided mobile tour will showcase a vibrant stretch of the ERT, starting with a scenic ferry ride across the Elizabeth River and winding through Norfolk's Downtown Waterfront. Along the way, you'll explore how the trail activates space through public art, stormwater infrastructure, pop-up parks, and creative placemaking, with a refreshing stop at Neptune's Fury Café to soak it all in. This walk offers a glimpse into how the ERT is shaping the city today, while building toward a future regional trail network that connects to Virginia Beach, the Virginia Capital Trail, and beyond. You'll hear how the ERT is transforming the trail into a national model for equity, connectivity, and resiliency. Whether you're here for the history, the planning innovation, or the views, this trail truly has something for everyone.
Kindra Greene
Elizabeth River Trail Foundation
Morgan Willett
Elizabeth River Trail Foundation
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM | Breakout Sessions
"Know Before You Grow – Linking Land Use and Infrastructure Capacity in Goochland"
Environment, Sustainability, and Resiliency
1 CM | #9313715
This session tells the story of Goochland County’s growth management challenges of the last 5 years and how a new direction towards data-driven planning and policy analysis is helping the County make progress and build trust with the public and decision makers. Goochland is among the state’s fastest growing counties, and fears abound on the impacts of growth and development on the County’s traditional rural landscape. In response the County is taking steps to reinforce its growth management policies that call for focusing growth and development in the far eastern edges of the County closest to urban Richmond and Henrico County. To better understand the implications of this policy, and how to support growth in this area while maintaining the western rural areas, the County and its consulting team created a new tool called the Development Impacts Estimator Tool. The tool helps the County evaluate the impacts on infrastructure capacity of any number of land use scenarios in the prime economic development area. This quick response and transparent tool has earned support and built trust among the public and decision makers.
Steve Schmidt, AICP, PE
Timmons Group
Jeremy Goldstein
Line and Grade
Ramzi Farhat
Goochland County
"Faith-Based Property Ownership in Virginia: Quantifying Potential Impact of Statewide “Faith in Housing” Legislation"
Housing, Community, and Economic Development
1 CM | #9313723
HousingForward Virginia was commissioned by Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy to help quantify and locate faith-owned parcels in Virginia. The goal of this investigation was to help inform policy related to the development of affordable housing on these parcels. Senate Bill 233, which aimed to grant religious organizations certain powers to overcome local zoning barriers for affordable housing development on their own land, was continued in committee by the Virginia Senate during the 2024 General Assembly Session.
In response, a coalition led by the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy was formed to explore future legislative strategies. This research project provided essential data on the scope and scale of faith-based property ownership across Virginia to guide and substantiate new policy proposals.
Eric Mai
HousingForward Virginia
"Facilitation for Impact: Strengthening Community Engagement in Planning"
Public Engagement
1 CM | #9313725
Planners are often tasked with navigating complex community dynamics while ensuring inclusive decision-making processes. This session, developed by the Institute for Engagement & Negotiation (IEN) at UVA, will explore practical facilitation techniques that help planners engage diverse stakeholders, build consensus, and drive action in local and regional planning efforts. Through real-world case studies— the RAFT (Resilience Adaptation Feasibility Tool), Chesapeake Bay stakeholder engagement, and Virginia’s solar workgroup —attendees will learn how structured facilitation can enhance community engagement. The session will provide planners with tools and strategies to design more effective, equitable, and participatory planning processes that address emerging challenges in Virginia’s evolving landscape.
Tanya Denckla Cobb
University of Virginia Institute for Engagement & Negotiation
Ian Baxter
University of Virginia Institute for Engagement & Negotiation
Meredith Keppel
University of Virginia Institute for Engagement & Negotiation
"Tactical Urbanism for Transportation Safety: Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper Program in Richmond"
Transportation
1 CM | 1 EQ | #9313751
Richmond’s Office of Equitable Transit and Mobility (OETM) is pioneering a Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper (LQC) approach to transportation safety, implementing rapid, low-cost solutions inspired by tactical urbanism. This session will explore how OETM developed the LQC set-aside program to deliver equity-driven, short-term safety improvements while permanent infrastructure is pursued. Using Richmond’s Mosby Street/Mechanicsville Turnpike corridor near MLK Middle School as a case study, presenters will discuss project selection, implementation challenges, community engagement, and early results. Attendees will learn how to navigate funding, bureaucracy, and design constraints to create immediate, impactful safety interventions. By the end of the session, planners will gain insights into how they can apply LQC strategies in their own communities to enhance pedestrian safety and mobility in an equitable and cost-effective way.
Kelli Rowan, AICP
City of Richmond (Contractor)
Thomas Ruff, PE, PTOE, AICP
Timmons Group
"From Co-Worker to Boss, Navigating Professional Success: A Panel Discussion"
Networking/Upskilling
1 CM | #9313754
Getting a promotion is great, but that does not mean it is without its challenges. You can be one of the team one day and leading the same team the next day. In this panel discussion we will touch on the highlights of taking on a leadership role within your organization, and touch on some of the difficulties encountered when transitioning to a new role. The panel will discuss lessons that have been learned and how future leaders can navigate the challenges of maintaining healthy relationships while effectively leading staff.
Brittany Colyer
City of Suffolk
Jennifer Cobb, CZA
City of Suffolk
3:30 - 4:00 PM
Networking Break
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM | Breakout Sessions
"Stormwater Strikes Back"
Environment, Sustainability, and Resiliency
1 CM | #9313716
As urban areas become denser and stormwater regulations grow increasingly stringent, conflicting mandates are emerging between stormwater management requirements and the goals of urban zoning codes. This session will provide a foundational understanding of stormwater principles, equipping participants with the knowledge needed to navigate these challenges. We will explore how evolving regulations, while essential for environmental protection, can inadvertently hinder the development patterns that cities and towns strive to achieve. Through real-world examples and practical insights, attendees will gain a clearer perspective on the intersection of stormwater policy and urban planning. The discussion will highlight strategies for balancing regulatory compliance with the need for vibrant, well-designed urban spaces.
Daniel C. Hyer, PE
Line and Grade
Kendra Moon, PE
Line and Grade
Jeremy Goldstein, AICP
Line and Grade
Michael Callahan
Line and Grade
"Connecting Culture, Heritage and Planning in Richmond, VA"
Housing, Community, and Economic Development
1 CM | #9313726
Lead City staff will share a brief synopsis of preservation planning or lack thereof in the City of Richmond and the growing community desire to protect a sense of space and community. City staff and the consultant team will share how the project unfolded, starting with the two-phase approach which lent flexibility to the project design to enhance community engagement activities, and how the input from the community was used to directly influence development of the plan.
Kimberly Chen
City of Richmond
Paige Pollard
Commonwealth Preservation Group
"Not Your Mother’s Planning Training: Tips for a Fun, Interactive Approach to Planning Commissioners Trainings"
Public Engagement
1 CM | #9313740
In the New River Valley, the region’s local government staff and the Regional Commission come together to host an annual Planning Commissioners training. This innovative event brings together collective local expertise, guest speakers, and a little fun sprinkled in, to increase the knowledge and capacity of the region’s Planning Commissioners. Past training topics have included interactive scenario discussions on conflict of interest, meeting etiquette, and FOIA, and deeper dive presentations on topics such as large scale solar, affordable housing, and cannabis. Chances are your region has everything it needs to host a successful training like this. Come hear some great tips on how to bring your Commissioners together for a time of fun, peer learning and fellowship.
Jennifer Wilsie, AICP
New River Valley Regional Commission
Justin Sanders, AICP, CZA, CTM
Montgomery County, Virginia
"Chapter Information Session - Learn About Proposed Bylaw Amendments, Chapter Sections, and Member Advocate Positions"
Transportation & Quick Takes
"AICP Preparation Session"
Networking/Upskilling
7:00 - 9:00 PM *
Annual Evening Networking Reception
*Time Tentative
Tuesday, July 22
7:30 - 8:30 AM
Registration & Breakfast | Planning Director's Breakfast
8:30 - 9:30 AM | Breakout Sessions
"Small Town and Rural Revitalization – Planning for Successful Brownfield Redevelopment"
Environment, Sustainability, and Resiliency
1 CM | 1 EQ | #9313717
Brownfields often play a critical role in community revitalization. They are not only in big cities and towns, but also small and rural communities. Many brownfield sites are located in areas left behind by declining industry, population loss, fiscal stress, and represent disadvantaged communities that lack resources or capacity to pursue grant funding, especially smaller towns in rural contexts. This session will identify ways to help planners and communities realize redevelopment opportunities and provide vision for new economically viable uses for old abandoned, often dilapidated, and underutilized properties and tie those to broader community goals.
Karen Weber
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality
Timothy Stromberg, PLA, ASLA
Stromberg Garrigan & Associates, Inc.
Sean C. Garrigan, AICP
Stromberg Garrigan & Associates, Inc.
"Yes in God’s Back Yard (YIGBY): Repurposing Faith Properties for Housing"
Housing, Community, and Economic Development
1 CM | #9313727
Communities across Virginia commonly face a challenge: when churches and other houses of worship experience declining congregations and financial resources, what will happen to their properties? These buildings require reinvestment, yet with diminishing usage, their congregations have hard decisions to make. Kicking the can down the road can lead to deferred maintenance and ultimately loss of important community anchors. This affects neighborhood vitality and therefore becomes a matter of concern for local government. Fortunately, redevelopment for housing can be part of the solution. This can be a win-win situation, since affordable housing generally fits well with the mission of faith communities, generates income, and meets a critical local need.
This session will explore the origins and scope of the problem, the process congregations follow to build consensus and identify a path forward, how to analyze redevelopment potential, common land use and neighbor relations issues, the role of partnerships and how to structure them, and the approach that Virginia Housing takes to support these projects.
Matthew Bolster, AICP
Virginia Housing
Rick Reinhard
Niagara Consulting Group
"Wheels of Influence: Decoding Public Input and Privilege in Transportation Planning"
Transportation
1 CM | 1 EQ | #9314038
Do you ever find that neighborhood "representatives" do not really represent the opinions of the neighborhood? Or they only represent certain neighbors? How do you show decision makers that the few loud voices opposing your project aren't the voices of the majority? Alexandria has used several innovative techniques for community engagement, like data collection and visualization, storytelling and connections to council-approved plans to achieve our first zero-fatality year in 2023 and reduce serious crashes by 65%.
Christopher Ziemann, AICP
City of Alexandria
Alex Carroll
City of Alexandria
"Resume Clinic/Mentoring"
Networking/Upskilling
More information coming soon!
Tuesday Morning Mobile Tour
8:30 AM - 12:00 PM | Mobile Tours
Roots & Resilience: Portsmouth’s African American Legacy
3 CM | #9314037
This tour tells the story of the importance of Portsmouth's African American population in the development of the City and the role they played in events that shaped the community. The tour highlights cultural, political, social and economic sites and objects that document the African American contribution to the City.
Charles Johnson
African American Historical Society of Portsmouth (AAHSP)
8:30 - 10:40 AM | Deep Dive Breakout Session
"Planner's Advocacy Training Workshop: Empowering Planners to Influence Policy and Drive Change"
Public Engagement
2.25 CM | #9313745
In today's rapidly evolving urban landscapes, planners play a crucial role in shaping the future of our communities. However, to effectively advocate for sustainable, equitable, and resilient development, planners must be equipped with the right skills and knowledge. This workshop aims to empower planners with the tools and strategies needed to become effective advocates for their communities.
By the end of this session, participants will:
1. Understand the importance of advocacy in the planning profession.
2. Learn key advocacy skills, including communication, negotiation, and coalition-building.
3. Gain insights into the legislative process and how to influence policy decisions.
4. Develop strategies for engaging with stakeholders, including community members, elected officials, and other key players.
5. Create an actionable advocacy plan tailored to their specific community or project.
Shubha Punase, AICP, LEED Green Associate
M-NCPPC
9:30 - 9:40 AM
Transition Break
9:40 - 10:40 | Breakout Sessions
"Collaboration Keys for Successful Energy Projects"
Environment, Sustainability, and Resiliency
1 CM | #9313718
Growing communities require reliable energy to power development, industry and public services. Expanding existing infrastructure and developing new electric transmission facilities are critical for creating a sustainable energy resource plan. However, building or expanding electric transmission lines and substations often conflict with public sentiment, zoning ordinances or plans for future development. To mitigate some of these challenges, several key practices can be incorporated into a project process to improve collaboration and minimize conflict with project developers, community leaders, and local government. This presentation will share lessons learned from electric transmission projects that have been approved by local governments and key collaboration strategies for project success.
Daniel Fraser, PE
POWER Engineers, Inc.
Sam Baxter
POWER Engineers, Inc.
"Partners for Economic Opportunity"
Housing, Community, and Economic Development
1 CM | #9313728
The Port of Virginia is a key economic driver for growth and development in the Commonwealth. Beyond its role as a container handling facility, the Port acts as a convener of stakeholders and a partner in developing innovative solutions to further the movement of freight outside its gates. This panel will highlight the Port's partnerships in land use planning, transportation, and industry expertise to further local, regional, and state priorities.
Chris Gullickson
The Port of Virginia
Charles Bauman
City of Portsmouth
Kevin Wyne
City of Suffolk
Sam Belfield
HRTPO
9:40 AM - 11:50 AM | Deep Dive Breakout Session
"Planning Commission Training"
Networking/Upskilling
More information coming soon!
10:40 - 10:50 AM
Transition Break
10:50 AM - 11:50 PM | Breakout Sessions
"Visibility, Not Glare: Effective Lighting for Safety, Health, and the Environment"
Environment, Sustainability, and Resiliency
1 CM | 1 SR | #9313719
Light pollution has accelerated, increasing globally at nearly 10% per year in the last decade, especially with the advent of LED technology. This session will explore distinctive attributes of LED and explain the Five Principles for Responsible Lighting. Planners have a critical role to play in guiding localities to lighting choices that mitigate effects such as light trespass, glare discomfort, compromised vision from glare, health risks, disruption to flora & fauna, and losing the night sky. Lighting should be addressed in Comp Plans, lighting ordinances need overhauls to match the new technology, and most urgently, communities need to do diligence and take responsibility for how conversion of streetlights to LED happens. Members of Norfolk’s Citizens for Responsible Lighting will describe their experience of protesting overbright new streetlights and working with city officials and Dominion to find solutions. A raft of the latest resources will be offered, including standards, research, and newly released ordinance templates.
Sara Hollberg, AICP
Self-Employed Planning Consultant
Laura Greenleaf
Self-Employed
"Innovation District Plan, Portsmouth, Virginia"
Housing, Community, and Economic Development
1 CM | 1 SR | #9313743
The City of Portsmouth has adopted an Innovation District Plan aimed at revitalizing the High Street corridor, specifically from the intersection of High Street and Effingham Street to its junction with the Martin Luther King Jr. Connector. This initiative seeks to transform the area into a vibrant, mixed-use community that fosters economic growth and innovation.
Rhonda L. Russell, AICP
City of Portsmouth, Virginia
Brian Donahue
City of Portsmouth, Virginia
Jason Epley, AICP
Benchmark Planning
Michelle Wren
Portsmouth Partnership
"From Data to Dialogue: Crafting Compelling Community Stories"
Public Engagement
1 CM | #9313747
Unlock the power of storytelling in community planning with this dynamic session. Planners will learn how to transform raw data into compelling narratives that resonate with community members and stakeholders alike. Participants will discover fun and gamified ways to engage the community, gather meaningful data, and build trust in the planning process. This session will emphasize the art of storytelling, teaching planners how to craft narratives that reflect the community's voice and experiences. Attendees will explore iterative methods and varied questioning techniques to draw out rich, actionable insights. Join us to master the art of storytelling through data and feedback, and create a more inclusive and responsive planning environment.
Mausharie Valentine, AIA
SmithGroup
Kendra Hyson
SmithGroup
Catherine Clarke
SmithGroup
Renee Burton
City of Danville, Virginia
12:00 - 1:15 PM
Chapter Awards Luncheon & Annual Chapter Meeting
More information coming soon!
1:15 - 1:25 PM
Transition Break
1:25 - 2:25 PM | Breakout Sessions
"A New Standard for Resiliency Planning: Engineering Solutions to Combat Flooding in Portsmouth"
Environment, Sustainability, and Resiliency
1 CM | #9313721
Sea level rise and flooding pose a substantial risk to the City of Portsmouth and its largest employer, the Department of Defense. Increasingly prevalent and unexpected flood events create disruption for naval employees trying to reach their jobs, limits access for residents who live in surrounding neighborhoods, and ultimately impacts the long-term growth plans of the Navy and economic resilience of the City. To address critical infrastructure challenges across these corridors, the City pursued a grant-funded initiative for the DoD’s Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation (OLDCC) that integrates traffic engineering, coastal engineering, and stormwater management solutions. During this session, attendees will learn how to mitigate flood risks by incorporating future climate impacts, including sea level rise (SLR) and intensified rainfall, into stormwater management designs and improve stormwater infrastructure to enhance roadway resilience and access. They’ll learn about new techniques and tools for assessing the impacts of sea level rise, applying GIS technologies to present critical data to stakeholders and the public, and seeking out and securing funding for resiliency planning initiatives, all within the unique context of an interconnected naval community.
J.D. Hines, PE, ENV SP
VHB
"Right-Sizing your Affordable Housing Strategy: Housing Calculator and Policy Audit"
Housing, Community, and Economic Development
1 CM | #9313729
This session will combine a presentation about affordable housing policy with an interactive workshop where participants can audit the affordable housing policies in their own communities (or the communities they work with). The presentation will include two projects Line and Grade staff have led in the area of affordable housing: the Pinellas County, FL Affordable Housing Toolkit and the Housing Calculator tool. Participants can use checklists to audit their own affordable housing policies, and will be invited to share their experiences with promoting affordable housing in their communities.
Amanda Klepper, AICP
Line and Grade
Alan Steinbeck, AICP
Line and Grade
Jeremy Goldstein
Line and Grade
"Big Ideas to Local Action: Town and County Collaboration in Planning"
Public Engagement
1 CM | #9313748
Woodstock, as the County Seat, is a model for how a community can strategically plan for investment while reinforcing its role as an economic and civic hub. Both Woodstock and Shenandoah County have developed comprehensive plans that focus on investing where infrastructure and people already live rather than promoting unchecked expansion. This session brings together town and county planning staff to discuss how these plans align and how localities can support each other’s efforts to create stronger, more connected communities. Presenters and panelists will explore how Woodstock’s four Big Ideas and Shenandoah County’s six Big Ideas work together to shape the future, ensuring that growth enhances rather than undermines existing places. The discussion will highlight how coordinated land use decisions, shared infrastructure planning, and collaborative economic development strategies turn planning vision into action.
Lemuel Hancock, MLA
Shenandoah County
Aaron Grisdale
Town of Woodstock
Tyler Hinkle, AICP
Shenandoah County
"Awards Quick Take 1"
Quick Takes
More information coming soon!
1:25 - 3:35 PM | Deep Dive Breakout Session
"Presentation Superpowers: Unlock Your Potential"
Networking/Upskilling
2.25 CM | #9313755
The session will equip planners with practical presentation skills that enhance their ability to communicate effectively, persuade stakeholders, and ultimately increase their influence. Key takeaways will be to discover your audience's Kryptonite (and use it for good), master the story arc by weaving narratives that captivate, wield visuals as your super-tools, channel your inner hero through confidence and command attention, and activate your superpower through practice and refinement.
Earl W. Anderson, AICP, CZA
County of York, Virginia
Jeanne Sgroi
County of York, Virginia
Tuesday Afternoon Mobile Tours
1:45 (Departure) - 5:15 PM | Mobile Tours
Urban Eden: Paradise Creek to Ryan Resilience Lab
3 CM | #9313991
Paradise Creek Nature Park in Portsmouth, Virginia, offers city planners an educational tour through 40 acres of restored wetlands and urban forest, showcasing the Elizabeth River Project’s innovative restoration techniques and providing insights into integrating green infrastructure for sustainable urban development. The Ryan Resilience Lab in Norfolk, Virginia, demonstrates cutting-edge coastal resilience strategies, including stormwater management and net-zero energy design, equipping planners with practical models for building adaptive, environmentally conscious urban landscapes.
Pamela Northam
Elizabeth River Project’s Ryan Resilience Lab
Yolima Carr
Paradise Creek Nature Park
Mark Palamarchuck
City of Portsmouth, Virginia
Mike Fox
Stromberg/Garrigan & Associates, Inc. (SGA)
1:45 (Departure) - 5:15 PM | Mobile Tours
From Wastewater to Drinking Water: HRSD's SWIFT Research Center
2 CM | #9313992
The SWIFT Research Center is located at our Nansemond Treatment Plant, 6909 Armstead Road, Suffolk, VA. The plant has a check-in guard so you will need to announce yourself to the guard and you will be permitted through. The SWIFT Research Center is the first building on the right as you enter the gate, and parking is available in front of the building. The tour will take approximately one hour, and part of the tour takes place outdoors, weather permitting. Tours last approximately 60-75 minutes depending on attendee questions and engagement, and typically concludes outside, weather permitting. *Please note the Nansemond Treatment Plant is under construction. You will need to take a right into the SWIFT Research Center entrance sign before you reach the construction zone. If you drive past the “detour” sign, you’ve gone too far.
Brantley Bissette
HRSD
John Joel "J" Dano
HRSD
2:25 - 2:35 PM
Transition Break
2:35 - 3:35 PM | Breakout Sessions
"Crafting a Natural Infrastructure Resiliency Plan for Hampton VA"
Environment, Sustainability, and Resiliency
CM 1 | SR 1 | #9313722
The Hampton Natural Infrastructure Resilience Plan was created by through a partnership between the Green Infrastructure Center Inc. (the GIC) and the City of Hampton’s Resilience Division. The plan utilized new data created by GIC and merged it with city resilience needs to create detailed strategies to use natural infrastructure to build resilience. Key data, such as the finding that over the next 20 years, nearly 500 acres of parkland are projected to be inundated or impacted by sea level rise, and thus planning for new parks and adaptive infrastructure should begin now. Session participants will learn how to utilize natural infrastructure to create more resilient communities of the future today.
Karen Firehock, AICP
Green Infrastructure Center Inc.
Lauren Doran, PLA
Green Infrastructure Center Inc.
Anna Hammond
City of Hampton, VA
"Affordable Housing Toolbox"
Housing, Community, and Economic Development
1 CM | #9313731
Follow Prince William County’s story as it strives to address the affordable housing crisis in a rapidly growing and racially and economically diverse area experiencing both greenfield and infill development. Prince William County was long considered one of the more affordable communities in Northern Virginia. However, rising home prices and a tight housing supply are now pushing residents and workers to look outside the county for a home. This session will look at tools Prince William County has implemented and is exploring to expand housing affordability, including lessons learned in developing those tools. Housing, including affordable housing, is an economic development and community empowerment tool that touches many areas of planning including transportation, equity, and community success. This session takes a holistic look at affordable housing tools available to Virginia localities.
David McGettigan, AICP
Prince William County Government
Tanya Washington, AICP
Prince William County Government
Anthony Alston
Prince William County Government
"New Ruralism: Towns, Villages, and Hamlets in the Countryside "
For many millennia, towns, villages, and hamlets have connected people and the countryside, serving as centers of community, commerce, and daily life. However, modern development pat-terns have weakened their role. This session brings together students from UVA’s Townscape Planning for Rural-Urban Partner-ships course and Shenandoah County planning professionals to explore strategies for strengthening these places. Students will present research and proposals on urban form, natural resource connections, value per acre, and the strategic placement of development, along with street master plans that reimagine the future of these places. County staff will discuss why these places matter and how the comprehensive plan supports their long-term sustainability. Attendees will gain insight into planning, investment, and design strategies that ensure these communities remain thriving places of settlement, commerce, and social life.
Tyler Hinkle, AICP
EPR, PC
Lemuel Hancock
Shenandoah County
Chase Cartwright
University of Virginia
"Awards Quick Take 2"
Quick Takes
1 CM | #9314040
More information coming soon!
3:35 - 4:00 PM
Transition Break
4:00 - 5:00PM | Breakout Sessions
"What's That Noise?"
Environment, Sustainability, and Resiliency
1 CM | #9313744
This quick take will focus on presenting best practices and examples of how to revamp a noise ordinance to address the new noisemaker - data centers. In the past noise has generally been a police responsibility focused on parties that got too loud. Now data centers have moved in and some are putting up quite a ruckus. Noise ordinances and zoning regulations can help address the impacts of these new industrial uses, particularly in proximity to residential areas, schools, libraries, parks and other areas where a little peace and quiet goes a long way. As data centers begin to pop up across the Commonwealth planners need to be prepared to address this growing issue.
Kevin Finn
City of Chesapeake
Sean Garrigan
Stromberg Garrigan & Associates, Inc.
David McGettigan, AICP
Prince William County Government
"Free, Fast, and Funded: TRIP’s Role in Fare-Free Bus Service and Upgraded Stops"
Transportation
1 CM | #9313752
How did Alexandria achieve record bus ridership two years in a row? And how is the City responding to this? By using state funds to make buses free and to make waiting for the bus more comfortable and accessible! The Transit Ridership Improvement Program (TRIP) through DRPT funds both operations and capital projects, and Alexandria has been able to leverage these funds to successfully provide free transit city-wide, and to update many of the stubbornly deficient bus stops by adding inexpensive quick fixes, amenities like benches and real time signage. We are also planning bigger improvements like shelters and bus bulbs with TRIP funding, and have created a data visualization dashboard for the public to review our successes.
Silas Sullivan
City of Alexandria
"AICP Preparation Session"
Networking/Upskilling
More information coming soon!
6:00 - 8:00 PM *
Emerging Planning Professionals Reception
*Time Tentative
Wednesday, July 23
7:30 - 8:30 AM
Registration & Breakfast
8:30 - 9:30 AM
Legislative Plenary Session
1 CM | 1 L | #9313997
A review of the 2025 General Assembly sessions and the legislation, both passed and contemplated, that are of importance to planners within the Commonwealth.
Jeffrey Miller
Portsmouth City Attorney's Office
Courtney Powell, AICP
WGI
Joe Lerch, AICP
Virginia Association of Counties
Eldon James
Eldon James & Associates
9:30 - 9:45 AM
Transition Break
9:45 - 10:45 AM
Planning Ethics in Practice - Ethics Plenary
1 CM | 1 L | #9314000
Get ready to dive deep into the moral maze of planning! This year's ethics plenary promises to be anything but ordinary. We'll kick off with a rundown of the Ethics Cases of Year-but this isn't your typical lecture-heavy session. We're bringing ethics to life through engaging gameplay. Whether you're a seasoned planner or fresh out of school, you'll leave with sharper ethical instincts and earn some credits!
Karen Wolf, FAICP
AICP Commission
Lorna Parkins, FAICP
Michael Baker International
Caitlin Aubut, AICP
York County
10:45 - 11:15 AM
Transition Break
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
Public Engagement Plenary: Hot Takes - What NOT to Do During a Comprehensive Plan
1 CM | #9313999
Comprehensive plans are critical roadmaps for cities, but let’s be honest—sometimes the process is an absolute mess! Between navigating political landmines, longstanding community conflicts, city friction, engaging a skeptical community, and somehow still producing a technically sound and actionable plan, planners often find themselves in impossible situations. This session takes an honest look at what NOT to do when managing a comprehensive plan. Using real-world examples from Virginia and beyond, we’ll share the biggest lessons learned in navigating, community engagement, polarizing politics, budgets, interpersonal dynamics, and the emotional toll of being the liaison between the city and the people. With hot takes, planning scars, and a lot of lessons learned, this session will leave you with practical insights to avoid common pitfalls and deliver a plan that is both implementable and community supported.
Renee Burton, AICP
City of Danville
Kendra Hyson, ASLA
SmithGroup
Mausharie Valentine, AIA
SmithGroup
12:15 - 12:30 PM
Concluding Remarks
We are actively updating this page as we confirm approved sessions.
We encourage you to check back often in the coming days!