Reclaiming Urban Waterfronts: Lessons from Seattle and San Francisco

Mark your calendars for an exciting evening exploring the transformation of urban waterfronts. On Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, in the UW Architecture Hall (Room 147) WA APA and the UW Urban Design and Planning Professionals Council will host a dynamic panel discussion featuring three highly accomplished planning professionals. A reception will follow the main event, offering a fantastic opportunity to network and continue the conversation. This event is free and will provide 1.5 AICP CM credits.

This special session brings together global insights and local impact, focusing on landmark waterfront projects in Seattle, San Francisco, and New York City. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives from industry leaders who have shaped these iconic public spaces:

• Ray Gastil, AICP, will kick off the night by introducing the global landscape of waterfront redevelopment, setting the stage with key themes that directly relate to the future of Seattle. Ray will also moderate an interactive question-and-answer session with the audience.
• Ed Rose, AICP, will dive into the historic removal of the Embarcadero freeway in San Francisco and the subsequent, vibrant redevelopment of its waterfront.
• Marshall Foster will provide an insider's look at the recent redevelopment of Seattle's own waterfront. This segment will cover how the Nisqually earthquake opened an unexpected door to urban revitalization, the early visioning process with key community members, the formation of the Central Waterfront Committee, right sizing the design, rebuilding the Elliott Bay Seawall, and the construction of the brand-new Waterfront Park.

What You Will Learn:
Whether you are a student, professional, or member of the public, this session offers deep insights into modern urban planning techniques and approaches. Attendees will leave understanding:

• The power of cross-sector partnerships in driving massive civic projects.
• How infrastructure projects can serve as a catalyst for enhanced urban design.
• The waterfront's unique role in downtown recovery and its prominence during the recent 2026 World Cup in Seattle.
• The balance between top-down vision and bottom-up community engagement.
• How to adapt and expand upon successful projects from other cities to fit your local context.
• How Seattle is now serving as a premier model for other cities looking to redevelop their own waterfronts.

A link to register is forthcoming – in the meantime, be sure to mark your calendars.