Designed for 2026. Built for the future.

October 29, 2026
at 713 Music Hall

401 Franklin Street • Houston, TX

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Large indoor conference or banquet hall filled with round tables of people attending a formal event, with some standing and clapping. The tables are decorated with white flowers and set with plates, glasses, and cutlery. The room has a high ceiling with two levels of viewing balconies, and event lighting with a blue hue, creating a professional and festive atmosphere.

On October 29, 2026, the State of Downtown will bring together nearly 1,000 business and community leaders, elected officials, key stakeholders, and top executives to celebrate the progress happening at the heart of the city.

This annual event will highlight major milestones, reflect on Downtown’s influence across the region, and offer insight into the exciting developments ahead. It is one of Houston’s most anticipated business gatherings, where important conversations and connections take shape.

Step into the future of Downtown Houston, alongside the city’s leading voices.

Reserve Your Seats

Our Keynote Presentation

Four Generations, One Future: Designing Workplaces and Cities That Work for Everyone

Today’s workforce spans four generations, each shaped by different technologies, economic conditions, workplace expectations, and definitions of community. This panel will explore how those differences are influencing the design of offices, neighborhoods, and downtowns—and how thoughtful design can create environments that foster collaboration, flexibility, belonging, and performance.

Reserve Your Seats

Alicia Rainwater

The Center for Generational Kinetics

Panelists

National experts and Houston leaders will examine the connections between workplace strategy, urban experience, organizational culture, and the future competitiveness of cities.

Elizabeth Brink

Global Co-CEO, Gensler

Widely recognized design strategist specializing in workplace transformation, human-centered placemaking, experience design, and high-performance spaces shaped by technology and evolving user needs.

Chief Learning and Talent Officer, Chevron

Leads efforts focused on developing talent, strengthening leadership capabilities and preparing Chevron’s workforce for the future. A longtime human resources leader with experience across Chevron’s global operations, he brings a people-centered perspective on how organizations can attract, develop and engage employees in a rapidly changing workplace.

Justin Steele

David Dixon

FAIA, Vice President and Urban Places Fellow, Stantec

Award-winning urban planner and architect specializing in downtown revitalization, mixed-use districts, resilient communities, equitable redevelopment, and transforming neighborhoods through market-driven design. Author of The 5-minute Downtown: Reviving and Reinventing the Heart of the City, to be published by Island Press in 2027.

State of Downtown will also feature remarks from prominent Houston leaders, along with updates from Downtown Houston+

With remarks from:

Kris Larson, AICP, LPM

President & CEO, Downtown Houston+

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Stephanie Burritt

Central Houston, Inc. Chair

Principal and Co-managing Director, Houston Office, Gensler

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The Honorable John Whitmire

Mayor, City of Houston

Event Sponsors

Thank you to our generous sponsors!

Sponsorship Opportunities

Presenting Sponsor

Since the first oil strike at Spindletop over 100 years ago, Chevron has been a proud member of the Houston community.

Keynote Sponsor

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Centerpiece Sponsor

Only 1 seat left!

Signature Table Sponsors

Head Table Partners

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Only 3 tables left!

Photo Booth Sponsor

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Impact Sponsors

We’re back at 713 Music Hall!

Central Houston, Inc. is proud to again host the 2026 State of Downtown at 713 Music Hall, located within the historic POST Houston.

A Downtown landmark of the city’s cultural scene, 713 Music Hall blends bold industrial design with state-of-the-art production - setting the stage for a powerful gathering that celebrates Downtown’s progress, energy and shared civic future.