We are thrilled to announce that Kenneth M. Neighbors, Partner at McGuireWoods, will be the keynote speaker at the 8th Biennial Tri-State Trails Summit on November 14, 2024, at Memorial Hall. Mr. Neighbors brings a wealth of experience in public finance, economic development, and public-private partnerships, and will bring a unique perspective from the Atlanta Beltline to the Summit.

With a distinguished career spanning numerous high-impact projects, Ken has played a pivotal role in financing and developing transformative infrastructure and community initiatives across the Southeast. His work has included advising on transportation projects like the development of the Atlanta BeltLine project, a 22-mile loop of parks, trails, and future transit connecting over 40 neighborhoods around Atlanta. His extensive background in finance and law equips him to navigate the complexities of large-scale development projects, providing unique perspectives on building sustainable and connected communities.

This year’s summit theme, Reimagining the Civic Commons in the Mill Creek Corridor, will focus on transforming this historic waterway into a vibrant community asset that promotes connectivity, environmental stewardship, and equitable development. Once a neglected industrial zone, the Mill Creek corridor is poised to become a thriving public space fostering inclusive community engagement and economic opportunity.

Mr. Neighbors will guide us through a vision of how public finance and innovative partnerships can help plan for equitable development in the Mill Creek area and beyond. His extensive experience in advising on complex infrastructure projects and his commitment to sustainable community development will provide valuable insights for integrating equity into the planning and implementation processes. By leveraging his expertise, we can ensure that future developments along the corridor benefit all residents, enhancing the quality of life and providing new opportunities for historically underserved communities.

Register today to secure your spot before early bird registration ends on September 30 at 11:59 pm.

Special thanks to our sponsors: Metro (Trailblazer), Duke Energy (Pathfinder), and Great Parks, Reser Bicycle Outfitters, and Stantec (Explorer). Your support makes the 8th Biennial Tri-State Trails Summit possible!