SMDP: Los Angeles at a Crossroads—ULI LA Launches Experiential Economy Council to Reimagine the Future of the City

Key Takeaway

Los Angeles leaders see experiential development, cross-sector collaboration, and infrastructure modernization as critical to positioning the city for long-term economic growth ahead of major global events.

What is Happening

The Urban Land Institute Los Angeles (ULI LA) has launched a new Hospitality & Entertainment Development Council to help reimagine Los Angeles through experiential development, tourism, and public-private collaboration ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics.

RCLCO’s Role

Real Estate Consulting firm RCLCO hosted the inaugural “Experiential Economy Talk” at its Brentwood offices. The event convened developers, policymakers, and business leaders to discuss strategies for economic revitalization, tourism growth, and experiential placemaking across the region.

Implications

A central focus of the discussion was how Los Angeles can modernize infrastructure, streamline permitting, and create more connected entertainment, hospitality, and mixed-use destinations.

The new council plans to produce policy recommendations and a white paper aimed at helping Los Angeles capitalize on upcoming global events and long-term urban growth opportunities.

Source

Santa Monica Daily Press. “Los Angeles at a Crossroads: ULI LA Launches Experiential Economy Council to Reimagine the Future of the City.”  Published May 1, 2026: www.smdp.com/los-angeles-at-a-crossroads-uli-la-launches-experiential-economy-council-to-reimagine-the-future-of-the-city/

About RCLCO

Since 1967, RCLCO has been the “first call” for real estate developers, investors, the public sector, and non-real estate companies and organizations seeking strategic and tactical advice regarding property investment, planning, and development. RCLCO leverages quantitative analytics and a strategic planning framework to provide end-to-end business planning and implementation solutions at an entity, portfolio, or project level. With the insights and experience gained almost six decades and thousands of projects, RCLCO brings success to all product types across the United States and around the world.  RCLCO is organized into three service areas: real estate economics, management consulting, and advisory services for institutional investors through RCLCO Fund Advisors. RCLCO is headquartered in Bethesda, MD and has offices in Austin, TX, Denver, CO, Los Angeles, CA, San Francisco, CA, New York, NY and Orlando, FL.