Attending the 2026 APA Upstate NY Planning Conference?

Our experts are sharing ideas and expertise throughout this year’s conference. Connect with us and join the conversation.

Explore our sessions below.

Learn more about the conference

 

Thursday, October 15 | 9:00 a.m.

From Blight to Belonging: Using Brownfield Engagement to Build Community

Through case studies from Herkimer, Ballston Spa, and Glens Falls, this session explores creative engagement strategies, including temporary art installations, interim site improvements, and community storytelling events, that transformed planning outreach into visible community-building initiatives.

Presented by: Norabelle Greenberger, AICP | Eastern New York Planning Lead and Brownfields Market Lead

Friday, October 16 | 9:00 a.m.

Waterfront Development Then & Now: City of Rensselaer

Through this mobile workshop, participants will tour key waterfront and downtown sites while exploring how the City of Rensselaer balances its rich history with the complex realities of modern planning, economic development, and shifting regional dynamics.

Presented by: Mirren Galway | Planner

Friday, October 16 | 9:00 a.m.

Agricultural Protection in New York State

This panel discussion explores how communities can build the partnerships, governance structures, and funding mechanisms needed to protect farmland in ways that reflect local values and support agricultural viability.

Panelists:

  • Devin Bulger | Planner, LaBella
  • Dalila Bonisson Oliver | Community Planner, Barton & Loguidice
  • Donal Collins | Town Supervisor, Town of Chatham
  • Lauren Axford | Open Space Coordinator, Town of Bethlehem
  • Mary Gail Biebel | Chair, Town of Chatham’s Community Preservation Fund Advisory Board; Co-Chair, Chatham Agricultural Partnership
  • Terence Duvall | Director of Land Protection and Stewardship, Columbia Land Conservancy
Friday, October 16 | 9:00 a.m.

Where the Trail Goes, the Economy Grows: Measuring Trail Impacts from Neighborhoods to Regions

Trails are increasingly viewed as community infrastructure that supports economic development, tourism, and quality of life. This interactive panel explores how planners can measure and leverage the economic impacts of trail investments using lessons from the Empire State Trail Economic Impact Study, Chautauqua to Erie – Lakes Connector Trail, and Buffalo’s East Side Trails initiative.

Panelists:

  • Sadie Kratt, AICP | Transportation Planner, LaBella
  • Meric Karadag, PE | Senior Transportation Engineer, LaBella
  • Dylan Carey | Director of Policy and Planning, Parks & Trails New York