B&D's venues leaders share 2026 forecasts
Experts reveal what's next for sports venues, athletic districts and fan experience
| | If you’re involved in planning, financing, or delivering sports venues, this is a can’t-miss conversation. In this bold predictions video, B&D's Venues Practice Group pulls back the curtain on the shifts already reshaping the industry and the changes they’re seeing firsthand on some of the most complex arena, stadium, and mixed-use district projects in the country. From the future of collegiate athletics and premium monetization to technology, district-driven development, and emerging sports, these insights go beyond trends to reveal what will elevate projects and set them up for success. Watch now to understand what’s coming and why waiting isn’t an option. | | |
Mixed-use districts are here to stay
Mixed-use districts are NOT a trend; they’re the future of sustainable, year-round revenue for sports venues and the cities that surround them. In this Ask the Expert interview, B&D mixed-use district specialist Aidan Lebow breaks down what really drives long-term success, from understanding human behavior to resisting short-term buzz in favor of balanced, market-feasible growth. If you’re curious how teams and municipalities can think beyond the venue and build districts that thrive for decades, you won’t want to miss his insights. Click below for the full interview.
| |
| |
B&D at SMA Annual Seminar
Connect with us to talk marquee venue projects and what's next
| | | | |
Two leaders from B&D’s Venues Practice Group are heading to the SMA Annual Seminar, and you’ll want them on your calendar. Bill Mykins and June Locker are deeply involved in some of the country's most exciting major venue projects, bringing hands-on insight into what’s shaping the future of sports and entertainment facilities.
Bill will also be moderating a panel, "The Cost of Staying Competitive: Strategic Capital Planning for First Class Stadiums," on Tue., Feb. 10. If you’re attending the seminar and want to talk big ideas, real-world challenges, and where the industry is headed next, don’t miss the chance to connect. Click below to schedule a meeting with Bill and June.
| | Photo courtesy of CENTERS | | How mid-sized college arenas perform year-round | | Mid-sized collegiate arenas are uniquely positioned to serve varsity athletics while also supporting youth sports, touring entertainment, and community demand. Drawing on examples from two CENTERS-operated facilities, read how 3,000–5,000 seat venues unlock year-round performance through intentional programming and operational agility, offering practical insight into maximizing utilization and long-term venue value. Click below for the full story. | | Established in 1998 by Brailsford & Dunlavey, CENTERS was the first company in the U.S. to provide campus center management services for campus life facilities including sports venues, recreation and wellness facilities, student centers, performing arts venues, conference facilities, and more. Visit or view for more info. | |
Never miss another issue of Venues News & Insights
| | ABOUT B&D'S VENUES PRACTICE GROUP | | B&D's Venues Practice Group is a national leader in sports, entertainment, event facility and mixed-use district development. With a legacy of advising on over $10 billion in venue investments across the country, the group empowers public and private sector clients to unlock transformative opportunities through strategic planning, program management, and community-focused development. With deep expertise in feasibility, financial modeling, design oversight, and stakeholder engagement, B&D delivers venues and mixed-use districts that serve as economic catalysts and vibrant hubs for connection and pride. For more information go to venues.bdconnect.com. © 2026 Brailsford & Dunlavey, LLC. All rights reserved. | | | | |
