From left to right: David Blackwell, Allen Matkins; Eric Tao, L37 Development

The San Francisco District Council of the Urban Land Institute (ULI) is proud to announce that David Blackwell, Partner at Allen Matkins, has renewed his term as Chair, continuing his exceptional leadership after already serving two impactful years in the role. This year is particularly important as ULI San Francisco prepares to host the ULI Fall Meeting, one of the organization’s most significant annual events.

Blackwell will be partnering with Governance Chair Eric Tao, Managing Partner of L37 Development, as Co-Chairs for the upcoming year. Their term runs from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Tao, who led the District Council through 2021–2023, has remained a steady source of guidance and support since his term ended and will now work side-by-side with Blackwell during this milestone year.

“Having both David and Eric leading ULI San Francisco during such an important moment for our District Council is truly invaluable,” said Natalie Sandoval, ULI San Francisco Executive Director. “David’s renewed commitment, paired with Eric’s deep experience and vision, is exactly the leadership we need as we prepare to host the Fall Meeting and continue shaping the future of the Bay Area.”

The Chair position is central to delivering ULI’s mission across the Bay Area, home to more than 2,100 members. ULI San Francisco is one of the largest of the 52 ULI District Councils in the Americas region.

Blackwell’s contributions to ULI San Francisco run deep. Over the past two years as Chair, he has championed member engagement, strengthened partnerships, and advanced programming across the District Council. Before that, he spent more than a decade volunteering in numerous leadership roles.

“I’m honored to continue leading ULI San Francisco, especially during a year when the Fall Meeting will highlight the work our members do every day to shape the Bay Area,” said Blackwell. “Eric has been a great resource for me over the last two years, and having him officially join me as Co-Chair will significantly strengthen the leadership of our District Council.”

Tao’s impact at ULI San Francisco is equally significant. During his term as Chair from 2021–2023, he spearheaded strategic initiatives to expand member engagement, diversify leadership opportunities, and strengthen ULI SF’s role in addressing critical urban challenges. Tao also championed downtown revitalization efforts. Beyond his term as Chair, Tao has long been a dedicated ULI volunteer, serving in multiple leadership capacities.

“David has been an outstanding Chair and an incredible partner over the years,” Tao said. “I’m thrilled to work alongside him to ensure ULI San Francisco’s continued success this next year and for the Fall Meeting.”