Jacqueline Gruber, AICP, is the Sr. Economic Development Manager for the Downtown Seattle Association. Jacqueline works with public and private stakeholders to balance the functional needs of a growing downtown with the careful art of placemaking. She spends her time collaborating on urban policy, public realm design, parks activation, real estate projects, and transportation planning to keep downtown economically competitive and welcoming to all. A dedicated urbanist, she gets her inspiration by traveling to other cities to partake in adventures such as riding transit during rush hour, frequenting local markets, and lingering in pocket parks. Jacqueline holds a master’s degree in Urban & Regional Planning from Portland State University, is certified by the American Institute of Certified Planners, and is an International Downtown Association Emerging Leader Fellow.