More than 900 commercial real estate professionals and 75 sponsors attended the 18th Annual Commercial Real Estate Forecast Conference hosted by RE Journals on Thurs., Jan. 9 from 7 a.m.–12 p.m. The conference was held at the Hyatt Regency Chicago-West Tower.

Kathryn Kovitz Arnold, chair of Taft’s Real Estate and Condominium groups, kicked off the morning by moderating a panel of industry leaders who gave their thoughts on where CRE is headed in 2020.

Panelists included:

• Jim McDonald, EVP, Ryan Companies U.S., Inc.
• Lori Healey, President, Clayco-Chicago
• Jack George, Partner, Akerman LLP
• Brian Atkinson, Leasing Director, Hines

Arnold has played a key role in shaping the landscape of many of Chicago’s most diverse neighborhoods and business communities, through her wide-ranging real estate practice. She focuses in the areas of real estate development, commercial and residential condominium development and conversion, leasing, mixed-use projects, restaurants, mixed-use high-rise development, vertical subdivisions and separations, and commercial financing.

About RE Journals
An industry leader for decades, RE Journals is the leading source for commercial real estate news, covering the intricacies of the sector from key influencers to the newest developments in America’s heartland. It provides an array of analysis, breaking news and insight for industry professionals with a variety of publications including Midwest Real Estate News, Illinois Real Estate Journal and Chicago Industrial Properties. From its Chicago-based headquarters, RE Journals hosts a variety of conferences and events throughout the year to celebrate, network and gain insight into the Midwest’s commercial real estate scene.