brian Kurtz Named CEO of San Jose Downtown Association Amidst 2026 Event Preparations
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A nationally recognized leader in urban revitalization, Brian Kurtz, has been selected as the new chief executive officer of the San Jose Downtown Association (SJDA), poised to lead the organization through a period of significant growth and preparation for major international events. Kurtz will assume his role in January, succeeding Interim CEO Alan “Gumby” Marques, who stepped in following the departure of Alex Stettinski earlier this year.
The appointment comes at a pivotal moment for San Jose, as the city gears up to host Super Bowl 60 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara and FIFA World Cup matches in 2026. The SJDA, representing over 2,000 members, will be instrumental in ensuring a vibrant and welcoming downtown experience for the anticipated influx of visitors.
Kurtz brings over 15 years of experience in downtown and place management, with a demonstrated passion for creating thriving urban environments.”I’ve been working in downtown and place management for more than 15 years,” he explained to San José Spotlight. “With that comes a passion for public spaces, public places and the intersection of people and place and the natural organic collisions that occur on a daily basis, in a positive way, within an urban surroundings.”
Prior to joining the SJDA, kurtz served as the founding president and CEO of the Downtown Tulsa Partnership in Oklahoma, where he successfully secured a contract with the city to bolster economic growth and foster public-private infrastructure partnerships. He also held leadership positions with the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership and in planning and economic development roles in buffalo, New York. Kurtz holds a master’s degree in urban planning from the University at Buffalo and is professionally certified in place management by the International Downtown Association.
SJDA Board Chair Emily Ruvalcaba expressed confidence in Kurtz’s ability to lead the organization. “Brian brings a depth of professional expertise and a proven record of building strong coalitions in support of vibrant downtowns,” she stated. “As San Jose prepares for major events in 2026 and lays the groundwork for long-term economic recovery, his experience will be invaluable.”
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for strong leadership. “brian is taking the helm of our downtown association just in time to put the final touches on planning for 2026 and most importantly – help execute it,” Mahan said. He added that his governance is committed to collaborating with Kurtz and the board to create a safe and appealing downtown area for residents and visitors alike.
Recent Downtown Investment Signals Positive Momentum
In August, the city and the SJDA unveiled a $795,000 beautification project along Santa Clara Street, between Market and Fourth streets. The initiative included refreshed murals, repainted building facades, and the installation of colorful lighting. Funding for the project was a collaborative effort, with contributions from the city, the SJDA, Adobe, Urban Catalyst, the Knight Foundation, PG&E, VTA, Jay Paul Company, and the Downtown San Jose Improvement District.
Former SJDA CEO Alex Stettinski acknowledged the challenges posed by current economic uncertainty and fluctuating tariffs for local businesses. However,he remains optimistic about San Jose’s resilience. Stettinski advised Kurtz to prioritize engagement with diverse stakeholders to gain a deep understanding of the city’s cultural and ancient context. “That depth of understanding will help him build the relationships that he needs to develop trust,” Stettinski noted. “It becomes authentic and productive in his work.”
Kurtz himself expressed eagerness to connect with the San Jose community.he stated his initial focus will be on assessing the current landscape and understanding the city’s progress as it prepares for the upcoming events.
The appointment of Kurtz signals a renewed commitment to the revitalization of downtown San Jose, positioning the city for success as it prepares to take center stage on the international sports calendar.
