As a real estate developer and someone deeply committed to making a positive impact in underserved communities, I’ve often reflected on the most effective ways to foster sustainable growth. The challenge of revitalizing neighborhoods and creating spaces that serve the needs of everyone—especially those in disadvantaged areas—requires more than just capital investment. It requires collaboration. That’s where Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) come into play. When done right, these partnerships can be the key to unlocking real, meaningful change in communities that have been historically left behind.
After retiring from my career in the NFL and diving into the world of real estate development, I quickly realized that the most impactful projects are those that bring together multiple stakeholders. Governments, businesses, and local communities all have vital roles to play, and when they work together, they can achieve far more than any single entity could on its own. It’s this belief in collaboration that drives my work at Kingsley + Co., where we focus on creating innovative, inclusive real estate solutions that benefit everyone.
The Power of Public-Private Partnerships
A Public-Private Partnership is essentially a collaboration between government entities and private companies to fund, develop, and manage projects that benefit the public. In the context of real estate development, PPPs are an incredibly powerful tool for revitalizing neighborhoods, particularly those that have been neglected or underinvested in for decades.
At the heart of a successful PPP is the alignment of public and private interests. Governments often have the power to provide incentives, tax breaks, or funding that can make projects more financially viable, while private developers bring the expertise, resources, and operational capacity to turn those plans into reality. By combining these strengths, both sides can share the risks and rewards of the development process. This shared responsibility creates a stronger foundation for long-term success.
In real estate, these partnerships can be used to develop affordable housing, create job opportunities, improve public infrastructure, and much more. The goal is not just to build something new but to ensure that the people in the area benefit directly from the project—whether through new jobs, better services, or access to affordable housing. I’ve seen firsthand how PPPs can turn a struggling community into a thriving one, and it’s one of the most exciting aspects of what we do at Kingsley + Co.
Why PPPs Matter for Inclusive Development
The real challenge for developers, especially when working in underserved communities, is finding a way to make projects economically viable while also serving the needs of the local population. It’s not enough to build a shiny new development if it doesn’t reflect the needs and desires of the people who live there. This is where PPPs can have the most significant impact.
By involving government entities, we can ensure that the development process is inclusive and that the community’s interests are prioritized. For example, in a PPP, a local government might use its zoning authority or tax incentives to ensure that a portion of a new development is set aside for affordable housing. These kinds of provisions ensure that gentrification doesn’t push out longtime residents, which is a risk when development happens without community input.
In addition, public sector involvement can help address the broader social and economic challenges facing a neighborhood. Governments often have access to resources and funding programs that private developers cannot tap into, such as low-income housing tax credits or funding for community facilities. These resources can make the difference between a project that benefits only a few people and one that serves an entire community.
I’ve always believed that real estate development should not just be about building profitable properties but about creating spaces that are accessible to people from all walks of life. PPPs provide an avenue to achieve this by ensuring that the economic benefits of development are distributed fairly and that the needs of the community are placed front and center.
Real-World Impact: How PPPs Can Transform Communities
I’ve seen the power of Public-Private Partnerships play out in real-world projects, especially in cities where development has long been concentrated in wealthier areas. In neighborhoods that have faced decades of disinvestment, PPPs can be the catalyst for positive change.
One of the most rewarding aspects of working in real estate development is the ability to see how projects can breathe new life into a neighborhood. When governments and developers work together, the outcome can be far-reaching—improving housing options, increasing economic opportunities, and fostering community pride. For example, by combining government support for affordable housing with the expertise and efficiency of private developers, we can create homes that are not just affordable but also well-designed and sustainable. This leads to long-term stability for the families who move into these homes and enhances the quality of life for the entire neighborhood.
At Kingsley + Co., we prioritize projects that benefit everyone, especially those who have been marginalized in the past. We’ve worked on projects that have included affordable housing, local retail spaces, and public areas—each designed to empower residents and bring vibrancy back to the community. These developments are more than just physical structures; they are platforms for economic growth and social cohesion.
The Future of PPPs in Real Estate
As we look to the future, I see an incredible opportunity for PPPs to continue driving inclusive, sustainable development. With the challenges that many cities face in terms of affordable housing, job creation, and public infrastructure, collaboration between public and private entities will be more important than ever.
The key to success in these partnerships is trust and communication. Governments need to trust that developers are committed to the long-term success of the community, while developers need to trust that governments will support their efforts and help remove obstacles that might prevent projects from succeeding. When these two sides align, the results can be transformative.
At Kingsley + Co., we are committed to leveraging the power of Public-Private Partnerships to create inclusive real estate developments that uplift communities and provide opportunities for everyone. We are just getting started, but I am optimistic that as more developers, governments, and community stakeholders come together, we can create the kinds of neighborhoods that we all want to live in—ones that are inclusive, sustainable, and full of opportunity.
In the end, real estate development should be about more than just building properties; it should be about building better futures for everyone. Public-Private Partnerships offer a pathway to achieve this goal, and I’m excited to continue working in this space, pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve together.