The Local Government Lab is an annual one-day gathering of local government researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. The event is a showcase of both academic and applied research, policy, and practice on state and local governance issues.
This year’s event will focus on the infrastructure needs of municipal governments. What are the challenges and opportunities that localities are facing in terms of building, maintaining, and financing the essential investments in physical assets—such as roads, water and waste systems, broadband, and public facilities—that are required for their community’s economic growth, safety, and quality of life? How are local governments engaging in prioritization, decision-making, funding, and implementation of critical infrastructure needs? To what degree are state and federal policies successfully supporting, or not, the essential services provided by localities?
Interested in presenting active research or practice relevant to the conference theme? View the Call for Proposals. The deadline to submit is Friday, April 17, 2026.
The full program and event registration information will be posted here as it becomes available.
