As a new Congress begins to debate policies that affect downtowns and city centers, it is essential that policymakers hear from place management professionals. IDA members have a compelling story to tell lawmakers about the importance of downtowns to our economy and quality of life. And they bring a powerful, credible voice to debates over housing, public safety, jobs and much more.
This year, IDA is launching its first-ever U.S. federal agenda to advance policies that help downtowns build vitality. In 2026 we are calling on Congress to pass legislation that:
- Addresses the homelessness crisis by strengthening programs that help the unhoused.
- Provides more support for crime prevention through greater investments in public safety.
- Ignites the transformation of multi-use downtowns through incentives for converting unused office space to new uses, including affordable housing.
The best advocates are the people who work every day on the ground at the local level. Elected representatives listen to their constituents. That’s why IDA is committed to empowering every member to advocate at the federal level for pro-downtown policies.
Join us on April 14 and 15, 2026, at IDA’s fourth Annual Capitol Hill Fly-In in the nation’s capital. There, you and your fellow place management professionals can meet with your House and Senate representatives to discuss issues important to the industry. IDA will arrange the meetings and provide all the materials and training you need beforehand. Creating great places takes all of us – join us in Washington, DC this spring to speak up for downtowns!
Hear what others have to say about meeting with their representatives to discuss issues important to the industry during IDA’s Capitol Hill Fly-In. #IDAHillDay