Big Bold Ideas that Push the Boundaries

Join fellow changemakers from across Pennsylvania at the Commonwealth’s Premiere Revitalization Conference. The conference will be held in Erie, PA at the Bayfront Convention Center from June 28-July1, 2026. Main Steets and the Elm Street communities around them are constantly evolving—and we’re riding the wave of transformation with bold ideas that challenge the status quo and celebrate community ingenuity. “Making Waves on Main Street” is a call to action for towns and cities to dream big, collaborate deeply, and build vibrant, inclusive spaces that reflect the heart and soul of their communities.

This year’s conference theme is Making Waves on Main Street | Big Bold Ideas That Push the Boundaries. In communities across Pennsylvania, Main Street is more than a road, it’s a heartbeat. When “Making Waves on Main Street,” we’re embracing bold, boundary-pushing ideas that spark transformation, ignite energy, and celebrate the spirit of innovation in downtowns and surrounding communities. This revitalization movement is about reimagining what’s possible when creativity meets collaboration among the stakeholders that drive big ideas when others want to play it safe. Together, we’re not just revitalizing—we’re revolutionizing. These are Main and Elm Streets like you’ve never seen before: bold, inclusive, and unapologetically visionary.

Conference Registration Now Open!

PDC Conference registration is now open! Don’t miss Pennsylvania’s biggest network-building and professional development opportunity of the year. Early Bird Registration will close on May 15 so visit the schedule page, look at the drop downs highlighting sessions and mobile tours, and make your plan for your time in Erie.

What’s Included

1. Classroom and Mobile Tour Offerings: Attendees have over 43 classroom sessions and 8 mobile sessions to choose from.
2. Great Food: Breakfast is included Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and lunch is included on Monday and Wednesday. A ticket to the Townie Award Dinner is also included in your registration (a $75 value!)
3. Keynotes: General session keynotes will offer valuable information and insights into the world of revitalization.
4. Connections: Gather with long time colleagues and meet some new acquaintances!

Why Register Now

1. Score Savings: Early Bird Registration is now open offering a savings on regular conference registration rates. Early Bird pricing closes on Friday, May 15 at midnight! Rates go up on May 16.
2. Early Access to Mobile Tours: Mobile tours will highlight both Erie and surrounding communities. Spots are limited so register early to be sure you get the on the tours you want.
3. Eliminate Stress: Registering now will eliminate any stress you may have if you forget and register last minute. Be proactive and register today!

Registration Tips:

1. Conference Schedule: Check out the conference schedule to see what is happening and when. See what mobile tours you would like to attend and then look at sessions happening at the same time, so you don’t overbook!
2. Classroom Sessions: No need to register for individual classroom sessions, just mobile tours. Classroom sessions are open to all attendees! Pick the one that interests you the most and head to that classroom.
3. Select Meals: Don’t forget to select a meal for both Monday Lunch and the Townie Award Dinner. Monday’s lunch will be plated so be sure to click the box and select a lunch option!
4. Additional Costs: A few of the mobile tours have additional fees. When you select the mobile tour, it will add this fee onto your registration. The Sunday and Monday evening welcome events also have additional costs.
5. Pay Online: Please select the option to pay online. Doing so makes things easier on all of us-you and PDC staff. Your registration confirmation can serve as a receipt. If you need an additional receipt, just let us know.

Register Now!