New Ways to Engage in 2026

In 2026, the Downtown Seattle Association/Metropolitan Improvement District is expanding how members, ratepayers and even the general public can connect, learn and actively shape the work happening downtown. From new learning opportunities to small-group conversations and familiar gatherings, there are more ways than ever to engage in the issues, services and relationships that matter most to you.

Inside the MID: Services & Impacts 

Launching next month, Inside the MID: Services & Impacts is a new webinar series designed to give members, ratepayers and the broader community a deeper, behind-the-scenes understanding of the Metropolitan Improvement District and the ambassadors working every day to support downtown. 

In each session, DSA/MID leadership will share the history of the MID, how the program operates, the range of services provided through funding by downtown property owners and how stakeholders can engage with those core services.  

Participants will hear directly from our three ambassador teams — Clean, Community Safety & Hospitality and Public Realm Operations — with a closer look at team deployment, services, real-world impact and unique projects ranging from graffiti removal and de-escalation training to public events and activations. 

The series is open to everyone and will be held monthly from 10-11 a.m.: 

• Feb. 26 
• March 26 
• April 30 
• May 28 

“Inside the MID is about opening the door and giving people a clear, practical understanding of how the MID works and the impact our ambassador teams have every day,” DSA/MID VP of Public Realm & Ambassador Operation Director Jennifer Casillas said. “These sessions are an opportunity to hear directly from the teams on the ground, learn how services are delivered and explore meaningful ways to engage with the work happening across downtown.” 

DSA Table Talk 

This year also introduces DSA Table Talk, a quarterly member-engagement opportunity built around conversation, collaboration and candid feedback. These small-group gatherings are designed for members to actively participate — sharing what’s working, what’s challenging and what support they need most from DSA. 

Each DSA Table Talk will focus on a specific sector or topic, with occasional guest participation. The first session will center on small businesses and the realities they’re navigating today. Space is intentionally limited to encourage meaningful discussion, and members should plan to come ready to contribute. 

“DSA Table Talk is intentionally designed to be a conversation, not an event or presentation,” DSA Director of Membership and Strategic Partnership Giselle Ferrufino said. “We want members at the table sharing their experiences, challenges and ideas so we can better understand what matters most and ensure our advocacy, events and programming reflect those voices.” 

Ongoing opportunities to connect 

In addition to these new offerings, DSA will continue to host its signature events and recurring gatherings throughout the year, from State of Downtown and DSA/MID Annual Meeting & Party to DSA Access, DSA Member Roundtable and DSA Preview. Together, these opportunities create various ways for members to stay informed, build relationships and engage with the leaders and initiatives shaping downtown Seattle. 

We look forward to connecting with you in 2026 — whether you’re joining a webinar, pulling up a chair at the table or reconnecting at a familiar DSA gathering.