Case Studies in Innovation District Planning and Development

By: Dustin C. Read, Ph.D., J.D., Assistant Professor of Property Management and Real Estate, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia

Innovation districts are widely believed to be an effective way to promote the formation and growth of knowledge-intensive businesses. They can take a variety of forms and emerge in a host of different settings. This report provides those interested in innovation district development with a better understanding of the factors contributing to the success of these projects, as well as the challenges they must frequently overcome. It presents case studies of four projects in different phases of development and offers suggested “best practices” for real estate practitioners and policymakers.