Ted Jutras is an urban planning professional who has spent the last six years working to build a more interesting, lively, and inviting urban environment in the District of Columbia, in service of creating a more robust and equitable local economy.

Jutras currently serves as the Director of Placemaking and Activation for D.C.’s second-largest Business Improvement District (BID), managing a summer events series that has become a staple of the neighborhood. Through this event series, which draws 40,000 visitors each year, Jutras partners with local organizations to showcase the city’s chefs, makers, design and tech firms, and arts organizations. Additionally Jutras identifies strategic public and private spaces throughout the neighborhood to enliven through a combination of temporary art, retail, dining, and events.

In his previous work with the BID, Jutras managed a variety of large-scale public art projects from conception through permitting and installation, while also working with D.C. government and local stakeholders to develop a public realm plan for the future of Pennsylvania Avenue West of the White House.

Jutras began his planning and public engagement career in D.C.’s Office of Planning, leading a variety of projects focused on strengthening neighborhoods east of the Anacostia River through a holistic and unified approach that combines arts, culture, dining, and retail with related job training and technical assistance.

In addition to his dedication to visual art, urban design, and local retail and dining, Jutras brings a passion for music, technology, and innovation to projects, where appropriate.

Jutras holds a Master’s Degree in Urban and Regional Planning with a focus on Economic Development from Virginia Tech.