Celebrating 120 Years of ARDA

Founded in Chicago in 1905, the American Railway Development Association proudly celebrates its 120th year. This year’s Annual Meeting marks a special homecoming as we return to the city where ARDA’s legacy began. Join us as we honor our history, recognize the progress made by generations of railway development professionals, and continue shaping the future of our industry.

ARDA 2026 Annual Meeting

Chicago, IL

The 2026 Annual Meeting is just around the corner!

We're thrilled to announce this year's Annual Meeting will take place June 14-17, 2026, in Chicago, IL at the Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park. We'll kick things off with a Welcome Reception on Sunday, June 14th, setting the stage for a productive and engaging conference. Attendees can look forward to a dynamic lineup of presentations, panel discussions, and networking sessions. The event will conclude on Wednesday, June 17th, with a convenient grab-and-go breakfast.

Stay tuned for more details, and be sure to mark your calendars - we can't wait to see you in Chicago!

ARDA Leadership

Click here for the registered attendee list. (Login required.)

Share the Value of Attending

Looking to attend the ARDA Annual Meeting and need to share the value with your organization? Download a one-page overview of the value and benefits of attending the ARDA Annual Meeting to share with your leadership.

Download the ARDA Event Benefits Overview

HOTEL INFORMATION

FAIRMONT CHICAGO, MILLENNIUM PARK
200 North Columbus Drive
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 565-8000

EMBRACE LUXURY IN THE HEART OF THE WINDY CITY

Steps from Millennium and Grant Parks, world-renowned shopping on The Magnificent Mile (R), and the breathtaking Riverwalk, Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park's premier location is ready to turn moments into memories. Discover Latin cuisine without borders at Toro Chicago, experience unmatched relaxation in Leaf Spa, and explore all this top-rated city has to offer.

Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 PM

Parking:
Overnight Valet Parking: $86.00 per night
0-3 hours: $32
3-6 hours: $55
6 hours - 24 hours: $86
*plus tax

Book Your Room!

Directions from Renaissance Midtown Atlanta Hotel to Norfolk Southern HQ

The Norfolk Southern Headquarters is just a short distance away from the Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel. Walking distance is approximately 0.5 miles and takes around 10 minutes. Alternatively, a quick drive or rideshare service will get you there in under 5 minutes.

Transportation Options

Chicago O'Hare

Rideshare (Uber):
Estimated travel time to the hotel is approximately 49 minutes depending on traffic conditions.(Uber Chicago)

Restaurants & Attractions

Coming Soon

EVENT SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE!

We invite you to take advantage of a unique marketing opportunity for your company by sponsoring one of the 2026 Annual Meeting events! We have several open sponsorship options. If your company would like to sponsor an event for the 2026 Annual Meeting, please submit the form and payment by May 15th.

If you have any questions, please feel free to let us know. We hope we can count on your generous support!

We are excited to see you in Chicago!

Sponsor Today!