Cary Hirschstein

Cary Hirschstein is a Principal and Head of Real Estate Strategy for the Americas at Populous, where he leads the firm’s Real Estate Strategy team focused on transformative, venue-anchored mixed-use development. A nationally recognized strategist in urban development, Cary brings deep expertise in structuring public-private partnerships, guiding complex pre-development initiatives and aligning public vision with private investment to deliver long-term economic and community impact. 

Throughout his 20+ year career, Cary has advised professional and collegiate sports organizations across MLB, MLS, NBA, NFL, NHL and higher education, supporting projects that extend far beyond the venue itself. His work centers on creating integrated districts that leverage sports and entertainment as catalysts for inclusive growth, connectivity and placemaking, helping clients unlock the full potential of large-scale development opportunities.

Cary has partnered with clients on some of the United States’ most complex and high-profile real estate initiatives, working with organizations including the Chicago Bears, the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks, Miami Beckham United and the Kansas City Royals, as well as cities such as St. Petersburg, Phoenix and Cleveland on sports-anchored mixed-use district projects. 

Notably, Cary guided a next-generation plan for Houston’s Buffalo Bayou East, a 200-acre transformation encompassing open space, new residential and cultural development and neighborhood improvements. The plan helped attract a historic private catalyst gift of $100 million, leveraging $210 million in additional funding.

Based in New York City, Cary is an active member of the Urban Land Institute (ULI), serving on the national Entertainment Development Council and ULI NEXT New York. He has been a long-time member of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), where he recently served on IEDC’s Redefining Equitable Economic Development advisory committee.