STATE DOWNTOWN AUSTIN 2025 of
PHOTO: MARINA WANDERS
PHOTO: NATALIE GEORGE PRODUCTIONS
LETTER FROM THE BOARD CHAIR
This past year brought both challenges and momentum for Downtown Austin. Economic headwinds slowed development, and the market began a long-expected correction. Yet throughout this period, downtown remained dynamic — and the Downtown Austin Alliance advanced projects that strengthen its foundation and future.
We’re proud of what we accomplished together. We welcomed a new President and CEO, Davon Barbour, whose experience and energy are already driving new ideas and connections. We expanded the HEART homelessness outreach program from a successful pilot into a year-round, City-funded program. We launched the Downtown Austin Space Activation (DASA) program, bringing life to underused downtown spaces through artist residencies and community events. We expanded the Downtown Holiday Stroll to delight even more Austinites, and helped advance the Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative and other strategic initiatives.
Public safety also saw progress. The new Austin Police Department (APD) contract will allow the APD to rebuild its staffing levels. Our new Downtown Safety Team, along with our beloved Ambassadors, have a 24/7 presence downtown to make the area cleaner, safer and more welcoming.
This year, we also strengthened partnerships with organizations such as the City of Austin, Waterloo Greenway, Mexic-Arte Museum and leaders in the East Sixth and Red River districts. These collaborations help us align priorities and move projects forward.
The re-election of Mayor Watson ensures we have a leader who understands downtown’s importance. One example of that leadership is the Downtown Austin Strategic Initiative (DASI) — a City-led resolution brought forth by Mayor Watson and Council Member Zo Qadri. DASI creates a framework for coordinating and funding high-impact downtown projects across mobility, culture, public safety, economic development and public space. As a key partner in this effort, the Downtown Austin Alliance will help ensure this work moves forward with collaboration and accountability.
Together, our strategic projects and partnerships position us to make the most of this moment. While new construction has slowed, this pause offers a chance to focus on quality over quantity, to activate what we’ve already built, and to lay the groundwork for what’s next. On behalf of the board, thank you to our staff, partners and stakeholders for your commitment. The future of Downtown Austin is still being written — and we’re proud to be part of the story.
WHITNEY KNIGHT
Board Chair
Downtown Austin Alliance
LETTER FROM THE CEO
Downtown Austin is entering a new era of transformative projects; I-35, Project Connect and the Convention Center redevelopment are reshaping the landscape — physically and culturally. These changes will redefine how people move through, connect with and experience our downtown for decades to come.
As I step into the role of President and CEO of the Downtown Austin Alliance, I do so with deep optimism — and with deep respect for the work that has come before me.
I want to thank Dewitt Peart for his visionary leadership and years of dedication. He and the team built a strong foundation rooted in collaboration, creativity and resilience. Because of their efforts, we have great momentum — and we’re ready to build on it.
My vision for downtown is grounded in the belief that great places don’t happen by accident. They are shaped through intention, inclusion and partnership. I’ve lived and worked in downtowns across the country. I’m unapologetically urban. To me, downtowns are dynamic, diverse places where people from all walks of life can thrive. Downtown Austin already embodies that spirit with its creative energy, cultural richness and sense of connection. I’m honored to help carry that forward.
In the years ahead, we will double down on what makes Downtown Austin great — its vibe, vitality and collaborative spirit. At the same time, we’ll address the issues that challenge its full potential: affordability, homelessness, safety and access. That means continuing our work to keep downtown clean and safe while also investing in placemaking — the kinds of experiences and spaces that help people feel a true emotional connection to this place.
This work is about more than infrastructure. It’s about people. It’s about helping small businesses thrive, ensuring residents feel at home and making sure every visitor feels welcome.
We won’t do this alone. Progress in Downtown Austin has always come through partnership. I look forward to working with you to shape what’s next — and to ensure Downtown Austin remains one of the most vital, inclusive and inspiring places in the country.
DAVON BARBOUR President + CEO
Downtown Austin Alliance
Davon Barbour
ABOUT THE DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE
THE DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE works with key downtown stakeholders — property owners, residents, business owners, community organizations and government officials — to advance our collective vision for the future of Downtown Austin. The Downtown Alliance leads, partners and advocates for dozens of projects and issues that contribute to the safety, cleanliness and appeal of Downtown Austin to residents, employees and visitors. As a full-time advocate for downtown, we actively engage in planning decisions that impact the area. We also advance downtown’s vision through direct services supporting safety, cleanliness, research and place activation.
As downtown’s full-time advocate and champion, we provide:
• Direct Services: Keeping downtown clean, safe, beautiful and welcoming.
• Advocacy: Collaborating on informed and inclusive policy making for downtown.
• Planning: Bringing people and organizations together to shape our neighborhoods.
• Placemaking: Activating urban spaces with inclusive, appealing programming.
• Research: Serving as a central repository for downtown data and metrics.
Our Vision: The downtown you will always love.
Our Mission: To create, preserve and enhance the vibe, vitality and value of Downtown Austin for everyone.
Our Core Values:
• Lead with Relentless Vision Earn Trust
• Inspire Passion
• Foster Collaboration Mindfully Impact
• Cultivate Inclusivity
WEBSITE VISITORS
137,000+
11,000+
INSTAGRAM FOLLOWERS
24,500+ FACEBOOK FOLLOWERS 23,000+
7,600+ NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIBERS
MEDIA IMPRESSIONS (print, online, broadcast, radio) 746.6M SIGNATURE EVENT ATTENDEES
TOTAL PUBLICITY VALUE $17.9M
PHOTO: NAYA MONTÚFAR
DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE FOUNDATION
THE DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE FOUNDATION is the 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable foundation of the Downtown Austin Alliance that raises funds for and curates arts, parks and cultural programs downtown. Foundation programs are made possible through the support of charitable contributions. The Downtown Austin Alliance absorbs all overhead and administrative expenses of the Foundation, ensuring 100% of donations go directly back to the community.
Foundation Vision: To create a Downtown Austin that thrives as a vibrant and inclusive community, where art and culture are accessible to all.
$1.3M HAS BEEN REINVESTED INTO THE DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY THROUGH PROGRAMMATIC ART AND CULTURAL PLACEMAKING SINCE 2019
(top)
FOUNDATION PROGRAMMING PARTICIPANTS
6,700
DOWNTOWN AUSTIN SPACE ACTIVATION (DASA)
5,000 MUSICIANS ACTIVATING SPACES
250 ART & PARKS TOUR
90,290
REPUBLIC SQUARE PROGRAMMING / ACTIVATIONS
800
WRITING ON THE WALLS OLD BAKERY COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
200
WRITING ON THE WALLS “GENERATIONAL TIES” RIBBON CUTTING & OLD BAKERY MIDSUMMER FEST
125 301 CONGRESS PORCH PROGRAMMING
Dancers perform in Republic Square, a part of Downtown Austin Parks; (middle left) A mural assistant works on completing the mural “Generational Ties” on the Old Bakery & Emporium through the Writing on the Walls program; (middle right) XOXO Photography Fellowship mentor Chie Endo chats with XOXO Photography Fellow Sabine Fletcher at their exhibition opening through the DASA program; (bottom) Musicians perform in the 506 Congress DASA space as part of the Musicians Activating Spaces program.
DOWNTOWN PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
AT THE REQUEST of downtown property owners, the City Council created the Austin Downtown Public Improvement District (DPID) in 1993. Since its inception, the City has contracted with the Downtown Austin Alliance to manage the DPID.
Our direct services, such as the Downtown Austin Ambassadors, cover the DPID area.
The work of the Downtown Austin Alliance is funded by an assessment on all non-homestead investment properties in the DPID valued over $500,000. The Downtown Austin Alliance’s
membership is comprised of assessed property owners, as well as residents and businesses who wish to become members.
The DPID must be renewed every 10 years through a petitioning process supported by the assessed property owners, which is then approved by the Austin City Council. The DPID is currently authorized through April 2033, and its boundaries are drawn to align our direct services and advocacy with areas projected to have the most significant growth over the next decade.
BREAKING GROUND
DOWNTOWN IN TRANSFORMATION
Austin’s future is taking shape.
Downtown Austin is embarking upon a period of significant transformation. Several major infrastructure and mobility projects are either under construction or breaking ground soon. These include I-35 Capital Express Central, Project Connect, Waterloo Greenway, Old Sixth Street, Capitol Complex Project, the new Austin Convention Center and the Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative. Together, they will increase downtown’s accessibility, mobility, greenspace and capacity to bring people together for work and play.
Although these projects will make downtown more vibrant and inclusive in the long term, the interim construction and closures will affect how people move through and enjoy downtown. This will require city leaders to proactively address accessibility and minimize any potential negative impacts.
MOBILITY & INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS
THE DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE is a longtime advocate for the needs of our downtown community and actively engages in downtown’s major mobility and infrastructure projects.
To respond to future construction, the City of Austin formed the Construction Partnership Program, which includes key agencies, to develop construction coordination and mitigation for city and regional impacts. Complementing this effort, the Downtown Austin Alliance is working on a downtown construction mitigation plan to address the specific downtown impacts of these projects, ensuring a vibrant downtown throughout the construction process.
I-35: Reconnecting Communities
TxDOT’s I-35 Capital Express Central project, which will lower the lanes of I-35 through downtown, officially broke ground in 2024. Initial construction is focused on improving drainage and rebuilding the bridge at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Major construction on the downtown highway lanes is scheduled to begin in 2027.
Lowering the lanes presents the opportunity to create 15+ acres of buildable land, or caps, over the highway. The Downtown Austin Alliance
led the Community Steering Committee that spearheaded a community vision for the caps and advocated for the full vision to be funded as soon as possible to future-proof the project against rising costs. In 2024, they worked with the City to win a $105 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to fund capping from Cesar Chavez to Fourth Street; however, this funding may be subject to federal spending freezes. The City Council will meet to review funding scenarios for the full project. The Downtown Austin Alliance will continue to work with the City and our partners as the project progresses.
RENDERINGS (ABOVE AND FAR RIGHT): OUR FUTURE 35
(above) A rendering shows a promenade at Third Street as part of the Cesar Chavez Street to Fourth Street cap over I-35; (opposite page, top): Artist rendering of a cap over I-35 between Cesar Chavez and 4th Street, looking north; (middle) A rendering shows an aerial view of a cap over I-35 between Fourth Street and Seventh Street; (bottom) Rendering shows a cap over I-35 between 11th Street and 12th Street.
I-35 CAPITAL EXPRESS
CENTRAL PROJECT
CESAR CHAVEZ TO FOURTH STREET CAP
FOURTH STREET TO SEVENTH STREET CAP
11TH STREET TO 12TH STREET CAP
Project Connect: Expanding Transit Options
Project Connect will increase transit options throughout Austin by adding a new light rail system and expanding bus routes across the city, including through downtown. As a supporter of Project Connect, the Downtown Austin Alliance advocated for optimal downtown station placement and streetscape integration as part of this year’s National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process. Throughout this project, the Downtown Austin Alliance’s guiding principles have centered on creating a safe, welcoming and vibrant downtown experience that minimizes traffic impacts, expands connections to downtown’s destinations, maintains local access for properties and ensures that the transit system supports existing and future development in downtown. Construction on Project Connect is expected to begin around 2027, with operations by 2033.
Convention Center: Enhancing Austin’s Event Scene
The Austin Convention Center closed for demolition in April 2025, with the reopening of a new facility planned for late 2028 in preparation for the 2029 spring festival season. The new Convention Center will include a $17 million investment in architecturally integrated public art. The Downtown Austin Alliance participated as an advisor on the artist selection panel, using our expertise to provide input on how public art from diverse perspectives can enhance downtown. In anticipation of the Convention Center’s closure, the Downtown Austin Alliance is actively working with partners to identify and inform the community on how downtown can continue to support festivals through small, local venues.
Waterloo Greenway: Creating a Natural Oasis
The Waterloo Greenway’s Phase II, The Confluence, is targeting completion in 2026. The Confluence will help connect the area from Fourth Street to Lady Bird Lake and provide an immersive nature experience. A lush new landscape of nearly 1,550 trees, 200,000 mature plants and 10 acres of seed mixes will improve downtown air quality, diversify the local ecosystem, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and curb the urban heat island effect. Waterloo Greenway is revitalizing downtown’s eastern edge along Waller Creek and will offer 35 acres of connected park space once complete. We support Waterloo Greenway by amplifying its events and providing Downtown Ambassador services.
Capitol Complex: Expanding Civic Space
The Texas Capitol Complex is undergoing a transformation, with Phase II focused on adding two new state office buildings on 15th Street and the final block of the Texas Capitol Mall. The Capitol Complex Project will enhance the pedestrian experience and better connect the iconic Texas Capitol to the rest of downtown.
The Hartman Bridge opens to the public as the first accessible portion of Waterloo Greenway’s Phase II: The Confluence.
15TH STREET
PROJECT CONNECT EXPANSION
CAPITOL COMPLEX
PROJECT PHASE II
PROJECT STATS
CONVENTION CENTER
Total rentable space is 620,000 sq. ft. (550,000 interior + 70,000 outdoor). Current space is 365,000 sq. ft. Project cost is $1.6 billion (funded by Hotel Occupancy tax and Convention Center revenue).
CAPITOL COMPLEX
Phase II will deliver 525,000 sq. ft. of office space and complete the Capitol Mall, providing a continuous connection from the Capitol to the UT Campus. Completion is anticipated in late 2026.
PROJECT CONNECT
Phase I light rail will cover 9.8 miles in Austin with four key stations within the downtown footprint.
CONGRESS
REBUILDING OF AUSTIN’S CONVENTION CENTER
WATERLOO GREENWAY
Phase II of Waterloo Greenway will deliver nearly 1,550 new trees to The Confluence, as well as 200,000 mature plants and 10 acres of seed mix.
WATERLOO GREENWAY
PHASE II: THE CONFLUENCE
WATERFRONT
CONGRESS AVENUE URBAN DESIGN INITIATIVE
Revitalizing the Main Street of Texas.
THE DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE has been a longtime partner with the City of Austin, continuously championing for design improvements to Congress Avenue. In 2024, the Downtown Austin Alliance spearheaded a public engagement initiative for the first funded phase of this project, which will use bond-allocated funding approved by voters in 2020. In partnership with the City, this engagement consisted of two public open houses, multiple focus groups and oneon-one meetings with impacted properties, businesses and stakeholders to get feedback on the proposed design.
Incorporating the community’s feedback, the Downtown Austin Alliance will continue to support a balanced Congress Avenue that provides enhanced walkability, slow vehicular traffic, multi-modal access and new public spaces through the implementation of a vibrant and active retail street north of Eighth Street. The Downtown Austin Alliance will continue working closely with the City as they develop and release their engagement report and final plan in 2025.
PROJECT STATS
The estimated cost for the full build of the Congress Avenue Urban Design Initiative (CAUDI) on Congress Avenue between Riverside Drive and 11th Street is $130M
The funded initial phase of the project is estimated at $23M .
Funding for this first phase of construction primarily comes from the 2020 Mobility Bond.
BREAKING STRIDE
ECONOMIC
INDICATORS
Downtown is navigating a period of market adjustment.
Following more than 15 years of exponential growth and development that grabbed headlines across the world, the Downtown Austin market has entered a period of correction. Global and national economic factors play a significant role, but this realignment is also an anticipated, normal part of market cycles. Downtown needs time to absorb its new developments.
Although office and residential vacancies increased this year, demand is still high for working and living downtown. There is more space to fill, but downtown’s workforce and population are growing, and lower rates enable more people to find a place here. The hotel and retail markets enjoyed steady performance this year, although these are both navigating emerging economic challenges. However, the essentials continue to endure downtown — people are attracted to its diverse mix of events, arts and entertainment, recreation and industries and opportunities. Downtown’s unique characteristics make it well-positioned to navigate this slowdown, capitalize on future opportunities and continue delivering long-term value.
PHOTO: NAYA MONTÚFAR
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT
The downtown development pipeline is smaller but sustainable.
THE DOWNTOWN AUSTIN DEVELOPMENT PIPELINE has contracted over the past two years, and that trend is expected to continue throughout 2025. Like other cities across the nation, Austin is experiencing the impact of larger macroeconomic forces such as increased interest rates and inflation. We have also experienced such a boom that a slowdown is an inevitable and healthy phase of sustainable growth.
2024 Deliveries: 5 projects delivered, 1.11 million sq. ft.
At the end of Q1 2025: 13 projects are under construction, 6.6 million sq. ft.
• Office: 1,341,560 sq. ft.
• Mixed-use: 2,669,853 sq. ft.
• Residential: 1,968,009 sq. ft.
• Hotel: 653,500 sq. ft.
Source: Downtown Austin Alliance Emerging Projects, April 2025
This slowdown allows the market to absorb its recently built projects, ensuring buildings are fully utilized and contributing to the vibrancy of our urban core. Downtown still has a healthy pipeline of well-financed projects, with those under construction representing an even balance of office, residential and mixed-use buildings.
Projects on the Horizon
Eight projects are slated for completion in 2025, totaling approximately 3.9 million square feet. Notable developments include the Republic, an office tower that has had considerable success in attracting tenants, and the Waterline, which will be downtown’s tallest tower. The Waterline’s unique shape has the makings of an iconic landmark on par with the Sail Building, Independent and Frost Bank Tower.
Downtown residential projects under construction will add more than 2,600 units (increasing supply by approximately 28%).
Hotel projects under construction will add more than 890 rooms
The Downtown Austin Alliance maintains an interactive map of downtown’s development pipeline.
Projects Completed in 2024
Projects Under Construction
Projects in Planning
Professional services, financial services and law firms are key drivers of demand for office space downtown, valuing a centrally located physical space for collaboration and client interaction.
We anticipate continued adaptation in Downtown Austin’s office market, with more flexible, collaborative spaces where businesses of all sizes can thrive. Our unique atmosphere, innovative culture and diversity of industries position us to embrace this new era of work.
DOWNTOWN OFFICE MARKET LEASING ACTIVITY
OFFICE NET ABSORPTION AND DELIVERY
DOWNTOWN OFFICE SPACE TRENDS
1.34 million square feet of office space are under construction.
Vacancy rates increased from 17.3% in 2023 to 22% in 2024.
Employees have returned to office by approximately 67% of 2019 levels.
OFFICE MARKET VACANCY RATE
WORKFORCE
Stabilized by a diverse mix of industries.
THE EMPLOYMENT MARKET downtown and citywide continues to be strong. The Austin metropolitan area’s unemployment rate decreased slightly, from 3.4% in January 2024 to 3.1% in January 2025*, staying lower than statewide and national levels. Although several large Austin technology companies announced layoffs last year, the effects were dispersed throughout the city, and this did not affect the overall size of downtown’s employment base.
In fact, total downtown employment has grown steadily over the past four years and is now 14% higher than the high of the first quarter of 2020. Overall, downtown’s diversity of employment sectors boosts its stability. Accommodation and food service is the one employment sector that has not fully rebounded. With hybrid work as the new norm, the average weekday employee attendance rate is approximately 67% of 2019 levels, shrinking the daytime customer base for restaurants. Total employment for these industries is still 11% lower than at the end of 2019.
Worker at Rosen’s Bagel Co. in Republic Square serves patrons of the park at an evening event.
PHOTO: MARINA WANDERS
WHO WORKS DOWNTOWN?
TOTAL DOWNTOWN EMPLOYMENT
TOTAL ACCOMMODATION & FOOD SERVICE EMPLOYMENT
TOP 5 DOWNTOWN INDUSTRIES BY TOTAL EMPLOYMENT
AUSTIN & DOWNTOWN TOURISM
Visitors know downtown is where the action is.
AT THE AUSTIN-BERGSTROM INTERNATIONAL
AIRPORT, 2024 was the second-busiest year on record, eclipsed only by 2023 passenger counts. Downtown Austin remained a prime destination for visitors, being at the center of or adjacent to events such as SXSW Conference & Festivals, Austin City Limits Music Festival and Texas Longhorn Football. Although downtown visitor traffic remains at 86% of pre-pandemic levels, overall levels have stayed steady over the past three years. This is an encouraging endorsement of Downtown Austin’s appeal, given that, on average, people are still going out less than they did before the pandemic.*
People from near and far continue to flock here to enjoy downtown’s unique concentration of entertainment districts, smaller local events and cultural attractions
* UCLA and Clemson study, 2024
Performers bring the “Live Music Capital of the World” to life in the Red River Cultural District.
2024 DOWNTOWN EVENTS
A sampling of the thousands of diverse downtown events:
SXSW Conference and Festivals Downtown-wide
Texas Longhorn Football
Darrell K Royal Memorial Stadium
Creek Show
Waller Creek
Holiday Sing-Along & Stroll
Texas State Capitol
Ascension Seton Austin Marathon Downtown-wide
El Grito Republic Square
Mexic-Arte Museum’s Viva La Vida Festival Fifth Street
Austin Film Festival
Paramount Theatre
Texas Book Festival
Texas State Capitol
Austin Blues Festival Moody Amphitheater
Pecan Street Festival East Sixth Street
Moontower Comedy Festival Downtown-wide
TOTAL DIRECT EARNINGS
$3.0B
TRAVEL SPENDING TAX REVENUE
$776M
TOTAL TRAVEL SPENDING $9.3B AUSTIN TOURISM IMPACT
TOTAL DIRECT EMPLOYMENT GENERATED
68,440
Source: State of Texas, Office of the Governor, Economic Development and Tourism, 2024
PHOTOS: (CENTER) SABINE FLETCHER; (LEFT & RIGHT) MARINA WANDERS
HOTEL MARKET
Visitors want to stay in the heart of the action.
DOWNTOWN AUSTIN CONTINUED TO ENJOY a healthy hotel market this year, with year-over-year occupancy rates remaining steady and average daily room rates hitting a new high. Two new hotels broke ground this year in the northern part of downtown, which has not seen as many new hotels as other downtown areas. These will add new options for visitors wanting to stay close to The University of Texas at Austin and the Texas State Capitol.
Although the demand for downtown hotel space increased by 3.6% over the past year, the market is beginning to soften as the supply of new rooms begins to outpace demand. The Austin Convention Center closed in April 2025 for their 4-year reconstruction, and hotel operators are cautiously optimistic as conventions and large meetings move to area hotels.
DOWNTOWN HOTEL OPENINGS IN 2024
DOWNTOWN HOTEL AVERAGE DAILY ROOM RATE
DOWNTOWN HOTEL REVENUE
AUSTIN
268,778
OCCUPANCY
Source:
Hotel ZaZa’s Cabana Bar hosts one of downtown’s many rooftop pools.
RESIDENTIAL MARKET
The market is challenging developers but opening new opportunities for residents.
AN INCREASED SUPPLY of new housing units is available for renters and condo buyers. Although developers and owners have experienced some headwinds, added concessions like incentives and discounts have created an opportunity for a wider range of individuals and families to live downtown. Downtown Austin’s enduring appeal lies in its walkability to work, dining, entertainment and recreation. When this experience is more attainable, it makes downtown a more vibrant and inclusive community for everyone.
Rental Market
Austin had the largest decline in median asking rent of 44 major U.S. metros analyzed by Redfin in January 2025. The main driver of this decrease is that Austin has built new apartments at a far greater rate than other cities.
The Downtown Austin market mirrors this trend. Rents are higher than they were in 2019, and occupancy rates have fallen to 86%. Higher capital costs (financing and labor), increased materials costs, decreased demand and an influx of new units over the past two years have caused the construction pipeline to slow down. More than 1,400 units are expected to deliver in 2025; this increase will continue to pressure property owners to remain competitive
THE AVERAGE 30-YEAR MORTGAGE RATE IN JANUARY 2025 WAS 7.09%.
Evening picnics in Republic Square are a favorite pastime for many downtown residents.
PHOTO: MARINA WANDERS
APARTMENT NET ABSORPTION AND DELIVERIES
Net Absorption Delivery by lowering asking rates and offering more concessions.
Condo Market
Interest rate hikes over the past three years have caused the housing market to cool significantly from the postpandemic buying frenzy that created a surge in demand and pricing. Prices have softened slightly as demand has come back into line with supply, and the average Days on Market has increased from 84 days in 2023 to 123 in 2024. The condo market has transitioned from a sellers’ market to a buyers’ market, and this trend is expected to continue as more units are delivered to the market.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
The proposed affordable senior housing development at the St. Martin’s Lutheran Church parking lot at 15th and Rio Grande Streets presents a unique opportunity to increase affordability downtown.
MULTIFAMILY DAILY ASKING RENT
(per sq. ft.)
VACANCY AND ASKING RENT GROWTH
Source: CoStar, Q1
WHO LIVES DOWNTOWN? GENDER
41 (36 in
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 1-year 2023 Estimates
MEDIAN HOME VALUE
$662K ($487K in Austin MSA)
MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME
$152K ($99K in Austin MSA)
Source:
RETAIL MARKET
Demand for storefronts is strong, but rising costs are a challenge.
A VIBRANT RETAIL ENVIRONMENT with full storefronts is essential to a thriving downtown. Occupancy rates have stayed steady over the last year, remaining above 97%*, and tenant demand for Downtown Austin locations remains strong. However, rising construction and labor costs have created a significant hurdle for some businesses to make the tenant improvements needed to enter the market. This also puts financial pressure on landlords, who increasingly need to make concessions to close deals. Addressing these cost challenges would unlock even greater potential, allowing more businesses to follow their desire to be in the heart of Austin.
Accessibility and the perception of safety are two other key factors in attracting both retailers and customers — especially customers who do not live or work downtown. Many retail tenants have reported that the new Downtown Safety Team has helped increase customers’ sense of security. Project Connect and other initiatives to improve public transportation and accessibility will also make it easier for Austinites to visit downtown.
Q1 2025, CoStar
Toy Joy brings color and vibrancy to downtown through their playful offerings for kids and kids at heart.
PHOTO: RUSSELL CRAWFORD
DOWNTOWN RETAIL DEVELOPMENT PIPELINE
Thriving Retail Categories
Lifestyle retail establishments, including health clubs and boutique fitness centers, continue to perform well downtown as they have a prime audience of residents and office workers within walking distance. Similarly, unique restaurants and food trucks, particularly those with more affordable lunch menus, enjoy steady demand. Retail brokers have also noted an uptick in high-end home furnishings and hard goods tenants looking to open showrooms in and around the downtown area.
RETAIL ASKING RENT & OCCUPANCY RATE
TOTAL DOWNTOWN MONTHLY VISITS
Selection of 2024-2025 Downtown Openings
Arriba Abajo
Atown
The Dead Rabbit
Desnudo Coffee
Pvolve
Serenade
Sushi | Bar
Taqueria 10 de 10
TOATS ATX
Top Roe
MICHELIN Guide Boosts Downtown Restaurants
In 2024, two downtown restaurants, Hestia and Olamaie, received one star designation from the prestigious MICHELIN Guide. These restaurants have reported increased sales, which increases foot traffic to the surrounding areas.
On the Horizon: East Sixth Street Transformation
As owners of more than 40 properties on East Sixth Street between Brazos Street and I-35, Stream Realty Partners LP plans to transform the area from a primarily late-night destination into a district with round-the-clock appeal. The developer aims to uphold and preserve the city’s identity as a haven for musicians and artists while bringing in more types of retail and restaurants, all with an emphasis on supporting local businesses.
“We are going to come and spend a lot of our own money to create a district- wide feel and have this be something that Austin can be really proud of.”
— STREAM REALTY PARTNERS LP
PHOTO: ERIC DUONG
BREAKING BREAD
ARTS, CULTURE AND COMMUNITY
Creating inspiring places and experiences.
Arts, culture and community are the forces that bring Downtown Austin to life, shape its unique identity and foster belonging. When people come together downtown for shared experiences, it enhances our quality of life and drives our local economy. To ensure downtown is for everyone, providing opportunities for local artists, cultural groups and entrepreneurs to share their talents is critical. It’s also vital to host a wide range of free and low-cost experiences where people of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy downtown’s vibe. Over the past year, downtown organizations worked together to activate public spaces and build a thriving ecosystem where creativity flourishes and diverse voices are celebrated.
PHOTO: SABINE FLETCHER
DOWNTOWN AUSTIN SPACE ACTIVATION (DASA)
Launching a platform for creativity and connection downtown.
IN 2024, THE DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE FOUNDATION successfully launched DASA, a program that brings vacant downtown spaces to life. By offering affordable rentals to small businesses, community organizations and artists, DASA makes Downtown Austin accessible and inclusive. DASA’s goal is to revitalize spaces, increase foot traffic, stimulate economic activity and enhance downtown’s aesthetic appeal. In June, the first activation space at 506 Congress Avenue opened, which has become a vibrant hub for community and cultural activities. The program will expand to more spaces this year.
“This is an outstanding program. As a nonprofit organization, it is really difficult to find affordable rent for special art events. The location was great, the facility was outstanding and DASA was easy to work with.”
— DASA ACTIVATOR
PHOTOS: (BOTTOM
2024 DASA IMPACT
6,617 Attendees at DASA events
$471,624 Cost savings through discounted rental space, free technology use, free promotion and discounted parking
614 Pop-ups hosted
DASA Artist Residency Program
The Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation launched the DASA Artist in Residency Program in October 2024 to support local artists. Artists receive studio space at 506 Congress Avenue, promotion from our partners at TRIBEZA, and professional development and mentoring. Each residency runs six weeks, and we’ve selected seven artists to date.
XOXO Photography Fellowship
The Downtown Austin Alliance also launched the XOXO Photography Fellowship to give emerging photographers a platform for their work. The first cohort of six photographers worked from October through December 2024, using their unique perspectives to capture our vibrant city. Each photographer worked with a mentor, and both parties were paid for their participation. The photographers also showcased their work at the DASA Artist Residency exhibition.
XOXO Videography Fellowship
Similarly to the XOXO Photography Fellowship, the Downtown Austin Alliance’s Videography Fellowship empowers emerging videographers to create with Downtown Austin as their backdrop. The first cohort of three videographers began working in March 2025 and will continue through May. They work alongside videography mentors and all parties are compensated.
“The residency enabled me to create motioncapture animations, 3D print characters from the game and draw inspiration directly from the vibrant energy of the city.”
— DAN JIMENEZ
(top) Art enthuasiasts enjoy works from DASA Artists in Residence Malti B. Lee and Megan Hildebrandt; (middle left) Each Artisan Mercado event drew in hundreds with its Mexican and Latin American goods; (middle right) Artist creates a painting at the 3, 2, 1 Kemmersive event; (bottom left) DASA Artist Resident Cat Carter sings at the DASA Open House; (bottom right) Attendees enjoy a panel from DASA Artists in Residence.
IMMERSIVE ART EXPERIENCES
Bringing out art into the open for all to enjoy.
Old Bakery & Emporium Mural & Enhancements
The Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation unveiled their newest Writing on the Walls art installation: Ruben Esquivel’s mural at the Old Bakery & Emporium, which explores Austin’s Indigenous and Swedish heritage. The unveiling ceremony included a land blessing, a performance by a local Indigenous dance group, and speeches from Mayor Kirk Watson and Council Member Zohaib Qadri. The Downtown Austin Alliance secured I Panini as Old Bakery Park’s new food vendor and all rent will be put toward park improvements. The space will continue to be brought to life through events and programming.
“It was super important for me to put this out in the community. It was a labor of love, but these stories need to be told.”
— RUBEN ESQUIVEL
Pictured: Generational Ties by Ruben Esquivel.
Writing on the Walls
The Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation’s Writing on the Walls program curates collaborative public art installations and events celebrating art, diversity and public spaces in Downtown Austin. The program added three small-scale ARTBOX murals on downtown utility boxes in 2024.
Artists & Creatives Thrive
The Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation partnered with Future Front Texas, the local experts on community design framework and public engagement, to determine how they can best nurture Downtown Austin’s vibe and culture. They solicited input from independent creatives, artists and cultural producers and published a report that will shape new models for creativeled experiences downtown. They are also planning a new flagship event, VIBE Weekend, that will bring people of all ages downtown for an immersive celebration of art and culture. The inaugural event will take place on September 19 and 20, 2025.
Arts & Parks Tour
The fourth annual Arts & Parks Tour, held in March 2025 by the Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation in partnership with Ride Bikes Austin, invited 250 participants to explore downtown’s green spaces and creative works on their bikes. This year, they focused on showcasing the new Old Bakery & Emporium Mural as well as hidden gems: Wooldridge Square, Parque Zaragoza, Plaza Saltillo, and smaller, tucked-away pieces of public art.
Holiday Sing-Along & Stroll
The Downtown Austin Alliance, KUT News and KUTX 98.9’s Holiday Sing-Along & Stroll continued to expand this year, featuring the Ascent Children’s Business Fair with 24 child-run businesses. This added to the family-friendly atmosphere of downtown’s free, annual holiday kickoff event, which also included a market showcasing local artisans and food vendors, live music performances and interactive art activations. The evening’s highlight was the traditional Texas Capitol holiday tree lighting and sing-along led by KUT News and KUTX 98.9 personalities.
REPUBLIC SQUARE
Increasing the vitality of the People’s Park.
REPUBLIC SQUARE HAD ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR , hosting over 90,000 people at events in 2024. With the help of their partners, the Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation brings the park to life through diverse and inclusive programming, events, park management and maintenance. This year’s highlights include:
CAN I KICK IT? Downtown Austin Outdoor Movie Series (September-November): The Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation teamed up with the creators of Shaolin Jazz to present a unique new outdoor movie experience at Republic Square. At each event, movies were scored live scene-by-scene with a blend of hip-hop, soul, rock and more mixed by DJ 2-Tone Jones.
El Grito (September): El Grito Fiesta de Independencia, produced by Austin Sister Cities Saltillo and Univision, commemorated the 214th anniversary of Mexico’s declaration of independence from Spain.
Lights at Republic Square (December): Passersby and people waiting for the Austin Trail of Lights shuttle enjoyed hot chocolate, s’mores kits and live music from Akina Adderley, Flora & Fawna and Sister Golden Hair.
Las Calaveras at Republic Square (NovemberOngoing): The Mexic-Arte Museum partnered with the Mexico City-based Colectivo Última Hora to create four large-scale fiberglass skulls painted by Austinbased artists, creating a vibrant display in the park.
Sustainable Food Center Downtown Farmers’ Market (Weekly): Every Saturday, Austin’s premier farmer’s market offers over 75 vendors, live music, family-friendly activities and community programs.
(top left) Parkgoers enjoy the Sustainable Farmers’ Market hosted in Republic Square every Saturday morning; (middle left) Shaolin Jazz’s “Can I Kick It?” series brought Ghostbusters to life with a live score and the famous Ecto-1; (middle) Artists of the Las Calaveras installation in Republic Square stand with their artwork; (bottom) Mexic-Arte’s Taste of Mexico brought the flavors and culture of Mexico to Republic Square; (right) A parkgoer in Republic Square enjoys an evening picnic while listening to live music.
2024 REPUBLIC SQUARE IMPACT
214 Community Events
90,000+ Attendees
PARK IMPROVEMENTS
In early 2024, the park’s lawn underwent a vital resting period to improve its health, during which a large mulch bedding area and electrical upgrades were installed to enhance event capacity. Further improvements included planting trees, adding mulched pathways through restored gardens and meadows, and installing rain gardens for stormwater management.
CULTURAL DISTRICTS
Strengthening downtown’s cultural vibrancy.
VIBRANT CULTURAL DISTRICTS are the heart of Downtown Austin, with a long history of drawing people together to enjoy live music, arts and entertainment. Many of these districts have become world-famous and play a critical role in shaping downtown’s identity and driving its economic success.
This year, the Downtown Austin Alliance continued to champion initiatives that support and enhance the unique character of these districts, fostering partnerships with a diverse array of stakeholders, including artists, businesses, residents and community organizations. Through collaboration, engagement and strategic investment, they strive to create a downtown that is an inclusive destination for all
“The 5th Street Mexican American Heritage Corridor will be a place where residents and visitors alike can experience the vibrant legacy of Mexican American life in Austin, Texas.”
— MAYOR KIRK WATSON
Participants at Mexic-Arte’s annual Viva la Vida parade take in the sights of the community ofrenda hosted at the 301 Congress Porch.
Ongoing Advocacy
Recognizing the interconnectedness of downtown entertainment districts, the Downtown Austin Alliance continues to convene the Red River Cultural District and the East Sixth Street Public Improvement District to align their goals and advocate for common interests.
Red River Cultural District
The Downtown Austin Alliance partnered with Red River Cultural District on a project to capture the artistic and musical heritage of the district, inclusive of its German immigrant history, Black entrepreneurship and role as a live music destination. The goal is to create valuable multimedia storytelling assets the district can use for promotion. A request for proposals was issued in late 2024, and the selected team will begin work in Spring 2025, with deliverables expected by the end of the year.
East Sixth Street
The Downtown Austin Alliance partnered with the Sixth Street Austin Association and business operators to support a pilot project opening East
Sixth Street to weekend vehicle traffic. This initiative intends to improve public safety by routing pedestrian traffic to sidewalks rather than forming large crowds on the street. Allowing access for valet and rideshare services can enhance the operation of restaurants and other businesses that were previously hindered by the street closure. This change is expected to attract new businesses and improve the overall quality of the district.
This pilot is being spearheaded by the City of Austin’s Police Department, Transportation and Public Works Department, and the Nightlife and Entertainment Office. It uses temporary infrastructure to test the separation of vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Data collected will inform long-term plans for managing the street.
5th Street Mexican American Heritage Corridor
The Downtown Austin Alliance is working with Mexic-Arte Museum to apply for the Texas Commission on the Arts Cultural Heritage District designation for the 5th Street Mexican American Heritage Corridor.
The district will be defined by the geographic anchors of Republic Square on West Fifth Street and Plaza Saltillo on East Fifth Street. Cultural districts are allocated funding to stimulate economic development, preserve cultural heritage, attract public investment and address the specific needs of the community.
The Downtown Austin Alliance partnered with Mexic-Arte Museum to secure a grant from the City of Austin’s Economic Development Department to create seven banners celebrating Republic Square’s history and the 5th Street Mexican Heritage Corridor. The banners were unveiled along Fifth and Guadalupe Streets in August 2024. The partnership also secured a second grant that funded Mexic-Arte Museum’s creation of a new website, a Cinco de Mayo celebration and “Las Calaveras at Republic Square,” a temporary art installation featuring four sugar skulls arranged in a cross pattern, each representing a different aspect of Mexican American and Austin history. The Calaveras have been on display at Republic Square since November.
BREAKING BARRIERS
CIVIC PRIORITIES & INVESTMENT
Enhancing downtown’s quality of life.
Downtown Austin thrives when its streets are safe, welcoming and vibrant for everyone. This section highlights the Downtown Austin Alliance’s efforts to address critical civic priorities, including enhancing public safety, addressing homelessness and more.
Together, these initiatives enhance downtown’s quality of life, strengthen our economic vitality and reinforce our distinctive identity as a vibrant and creative city.
CLEAN, SAFE AND WELCOMING
Keeping downtown public spaces clean, safe and welcoming for all.
SIGNIFICANT STRIDES WERE MADE in 2024 and 2025 through new partnerships and programs. In September, the City’s new Austin Police Department (APD) Chief, Lisa Davis, began building upon APD’s long-standing partnership with the Downtown Austin Alliance. The Downtown Austin Alliance’s work in collaboration with City management, Sixth Street Austin, Red River Cultural District, residents, and property and business operators has led to the implementation of new APD initiatives and direct services provided by the Downtown Austin Alliance to improve safety and the perception of safety downtown.
Downtown Ambassadors
The Downtown Austin Alliance funds and manages the Downtown Ambassadors contract, which provides cleaning, safety and hospitality services downtown. The Downtown Austin Alliance dedicates 54% of their budget to making downtown safer, cleaner and more welcoming. The Ambassadors have a 24/7 presence in the Downtown Public Improvement District (DPID), including Republic Square and Waterloo Park.
Each day, Ambassadors — easily recognized by their distinctive red shirts — remove litter and debris, pressure wash sidewalks, and beautify the area through painting and planting projects. Five additional full-time cleaning Ambassadors were hired, expanding the cleaning team to 16 full-time members. The Downtown Austin Alliance
The Downtown Ambassadors and Downtown Safety Team work to keep the Downtown Public Improvement District clean, safe and welcoming for all.
also invested in new, mechanized equipment to increase the frequency and efficiency of the Ambassadors’ cleaning services.
Ambassadors conduct early morning patrols of all downtown hotels and provide daily hospitality to visitors and patrons, with special emphasis during major events and conventions. Throughout downtown, they regularly refer people to social services and support the Austin Police Department’s work by asking people to comply with ordinances and reporting urgent issues to law enforcement or EMS. They also provide safety escorts upon request to help people get to or from their cars or transit.
Downtown Safety Team
Declining police resources and increased negative behaviors downtown prompted the Downtown Austin Alliance to create the new Downtown Safety Team program in 2024. Fully staffed since October with 25 team members, the Downtown Safety Team patrols the Downtown Public Improvement District, focusing on deterring negative behavior, referring people in need to social services, and requesting voluntary compliance for aggressive panhandling and sit/lie ordinance violations. They also provide an overnight presence in Republic Square and operate a mobile nightlife patrol, notifying APD of any serious crimes.
Downtown Safety Team Schedule
8 bike patrol team members
6 a.m.—10 p.m. every day
1 Republic Square overnight security patrol
10 p.m.—6 a.m. every night
1 mobile nightlife patrol (in a marked vehicle)
5 p.m.—3 a.m. every Wednesday—Sunday
Downtown Safety Team Results
May 1—December 31, 2024
• 9,463 interactions with people violating ordinances
• 89.7% rate of voluntary compliance with ordinances
• 416 911 calls for emergency medical or APD assistance
Property and business owners have positively responded to the Downtown Safety Team, noting improved safety perceptions. Since launching the overnight security patrol in Republic Square last October, there has been no significant nighttime vandalism or evidence of illegal camping or park curfew violations.
SAFETY INITIATIVES & PARTNERSHIPS
Collaborating to advance innovative safety measures downtown.
A SAFE DOWNTOWN IS VITAL to our well-being and economy. While crimes against people and property have decreased downtown since 2019, there has been an increase in negative behavior downtown, particularly in Class-C misdemeanor ordinance violations (e.g., camping in public, sitting or lying in public rights-of-way and aggressive solicitation). Crimes against society, driven largely by drug crimes and weapons law violations, have risen downtown over the last five years.
The Downtown Austin Alliance enhances downtown safety through advocacy and partnering with Austin Police Department (APD) on targeted initiatives and developing supplemental programs. This year, they partnered with other community organizations to successfully advocate for the City Council’s approval of a new police contract. The Downtown Austin Alliance continues to fund APD
Community members gather at St. David’s Episcopal Church to hear from the Austin Police Department at an Issues & Eggs event hosted by the Downtown Austin Alliance.
overtime patrol, which dedicates two police officers to the Downtown Public Improvement District from 6 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every day.
Mental Health Diversion Center
More than 40% of Travis County’s jail population has a mental health diagnosis, with many of those individuals repeatedly cycling through the justice system. In response, Travis County launched a Mental Health Diversion Pilot Program in October 2024 that is being operated by Integral Care. The pilot provides treatment-based alternatives to jail or the emergency room for people experiencing mental illness, including 24/7 Psychiatric Emergency Services, 90-day inpatient care at the Genevieve Hearon Respite Recovery facility downtown, and outpatient case management, medication, housing support and long-term treatment.
The pilot is designed to inform plans for the development and operation of
2024 DOWNTOWN CRIME TRENDS
Crimes Against Property
Down 7% since 2023
Down 30% since 2019
Crimes Against Persons
Up 11% since 2023 Down 15% since 2019
Crimes Against Society Up 56% since 2023 Up 31% since 2019
a Travis County mental health diversion center. Travis County Judge Andy Brown is leading a steering committee that will present plans for the future diversion center to the Commissioners Court in the coming year.
From October 2024 through March 2025, 317 people were served through Psychiatric Emergency Services. Of these clients, 96% experienced no arrests, 85% did not readmit to an emergency department within 30 days of discharge and 69% did not require crisis service within 30 days of discharge. For this same time period, 80 clients were served through the inpatient care program, with 77% avoiding emergency room visits and 80% having no arrests within 30 days of discharge.
APD Overtime Patrol
The Downtown Austin Alliance continued to fund the APD overtime patrol, which stations two dedicated officers downtown from 6 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every day.
2024 CITYWIDE CRIME TRENDS
Crimes Against Property Down 7% since 2023 Down 15% since 2019
Crimes Against Persons Down 23% since 2023 Down 35% since 2019
Crimes Against Society Up 23% since 2023 Down 4% since 2019
Source: Austin Police Department, January 15, 2025
Learn more at https://www.austintexas.gov/page/chiefs-monthly-reports.
Downtown Safety Network
The Downtown Austin Alliance implemented a Downtown Safety Network that keeps downtown property owners and residents updated on important public safety matters and enables them to report issues. People can sign up for text alerts, safety-related email alerts, and participation in monthly Downtown Safety Forums and other safety-related events.
Leadership and Influence
The Downtown Austin Alliance has a seat on the City of Austin’s new E. 6th Street Safety Task Force and APD Training Academy’s new Citizens Advisory Council.
The Downtown Austin Alliance also leads monthly safety forums and quarterly Issues & Eggs events, informing downtown stakeholders on downtown’s pressing challenges.
HOMELESSNESS
Addressing unsheltered homelessness in Downtown Austin.
TOO MANY AUSTINITES are experiencing unsheltered homelessness. Because downtown is centrally located and offers proximity to transit, emergency shelters and support services, there is a concentration of people living unhoused in our urban core. This is a complex problem requiring a comprehensive systems approach.
For more than two decades, the Downtown Austin Alliance has led and participated in partnerships focused on innovative, research-based solutions for
addressing homelessness. This year, the Downtown Austin Alliance implemented street outreach, increased family reunification, and advocated for increased funding for shelter, services, mental health diversion and housing.
Population Trends
Unsheltered homelessness estimates have increased over the past year. This trend is consistent with increases nationally and across the city, driven by the increased cost of living.
For more than 20 years, the Downtown Austin Alliance has provided gainful employment to hundreds of people with barriers to employment, including many who were experiencing homelessness. They take pride in the fact that about 35% of Downtown Ambassador team members have experienced issues that might prevent them from securing other full-time employment but do not prevent them from working on the Ambassador team. Employment through the Downtown Ambassadors program provides a living wage and benefits, helps people learn important job skills and has helped many who were unhoused resolve their homelessness.
ESTIMATED POPULATION EXPERIENCING UNSHELTERED HOMELESSNESS
4,940 435
Austin and Travis County: Ending Community Homeless Coalition (ECHO) DPID: Downtown Austin Alliance Quarterly Unsheltered Homelessness Count
HEART Austin Goes From Pilot to Permanent
In 2024, the Downtown Austin Alliance funded and launched the Homelessness Engagement Assistance Response Team (HEART) pilot, a street outreach program run by Urban Alchemy. HEART practitioners use their lived experience to connect with people experiencing homelessness, assess their needs, and refer them to services and support. Additionally, HEART practitioners respond to requests for service from the Downtown Ambassadors and Austin Police Department involving people experiencing unsheltered homelessness downtown to help identify, respond to and de-escalate behavioral issues.
The pilot, initially a six-month engagement, was extended to eight months due to its effectiveness.
Following the Downtown Austin Alliance’s successful advocacy, City Council approved $440,000 in ongoing funding and $920,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to support a year-round
HEART PILOT RESULTS
program across the entire Downtown Public Improvement District (DPID). The HEART program went into effect May 1, and the Downtown Austin Alliance is providing additional funding for increased outreach service in the DPID to actively address the needs of the unsheltered with housing-focused resources.
Trinity Center Family Reunification Partnership
The Downtown Austin Alliance continues to fund the Trinity Center Family Reunification Partnership, launched in October 2021 in partnership with Trinity Center. In 2024, 221 individuals experiencing homelessness downtown were reunited with their families through this program. Since its inception, a total of 642 individuals have had their homelessness resolved through this partnership.
Supporting Local Nonprofits
In October 2024, the Downtown Austin Alliance fulfilled its eighth of 10 annual installments toward their $2 million pledge to Community First! Village’s capital campaign,
FEBRUARY 1-SEPTEMBER 30, 2024
1,868 engagements with people living on the street downtown
120 people sheltered
3,601 social service activities (shoes, clothing, first aid supplies, water, Narcan, etc.)
53 people reunified with families
totaling $1.6 million.
With Phases 1 and 2 now complete, Community First! is now home to 399 formerly chronically homeless neighbors, of which 23% were living downtown.
The Downtown Austin Alliance also supported The Other Ones Foundation’s (TOOF) application to draw down the State’s HOME Investment Partnerships American Rescue Plan Program (HOMEARP) funds to create 200 noncongregate shelter units. In 2024, the Texas Department of Housing and Community Development (TDHCA) allocated $3.5 million to TOOF for planning, and TOOF submitted a $54 million development fund application to TDHCA in December.
TOOF currently operates the Esperanza Community, a microshelter community located on a 5-acre former TxDOT site in Montopolis. In 2024, TxDOT purchased an adjacent 7-acre site that will be developed in the coming years with the State HOME-ARP funds.
CELEBRATING DEWITT PEART
“Thank you for everything, and enjoy your retirement!”
— THE DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE TEAM
AFTER A DECADE OF DEDICATED SERVICE, Dewitt
“De” Peart retired from the Downtown Austin Alliance in March 2025. De’s leadership since 2015 has been transformative, leaving a lasting impact on Downtown Austin during a period of expansive growth and change. He was the heart of the organization, setting strategic direction, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and building an inclusive and passionate team committed to making
downtown welcoming for everyone. De was also the vital bridge to the community, government and all who care about downtown, consistently working to enhance its vibrancy. During his tenure, De led the successful navigation of major development projects, fostered key partnerships, and strengthened downtown as a thriving economic and cultural hub for the region.
2023-2024 AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENT
3,306,559
3,968,394
PHOTO: RUSSELL CRAWFORD
DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FY 24-25
Whitney Knight Chair, Allensworth
Kevin Brown Vice Chair, DuBois Bryant & Campbell LLP
Xavier Peña Secretary, St. David’s Foundation
Joshua Garza Treasurer, Kilroy Realty
Dewitt Peart President + CEO*, Downtown Austin Alliance
Davon Barbour President + CEO, Downtown Austin Alliance
PROPERTY DIRECTORS
Janis Daemmrich Daemmrich Photography
Bill Fielding Resident/Owner
Michael Girard Girard Diversified Investments
Tyler Grooms Manifold Real Estate
Perry Horton Horton Real Estate Partners
Will Jenkins Stonelake Capital Partners
Seth Johnston Lincoln Properties
Michael McGlashan Karlin Real Estate
Chinna Natesan White Swan Investments
Richard Paddock HPI Real Estate
BUSINESS & COMMUNITY DIRECTORS
Julio Carrillo Parkhill
Jeff Howard Chair Emeritus, McLean & Howard LLP
Ashley Kegley-Whitehead Infinity Water Solutions
Nick Moulinet DPR Construction
SaulPaul Artist/Musician
Chris Randazzo Garza EMC
Joe Pagone White Lodging
Julia Taylor Moore & Associates
Mark Terry Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association
ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS
Bob Barnes IBC Bank
Charles Heimsath Capitol Market Research
Tim Hendricks Cousins Properties
Nikelle Meade Husch Blackwell
Jim Ritts Austin Theatre Alliance
Steve Scheibal New West Communications
Sheryl Sculley Downtown Resident
Jim Susman STG Design
Sania Shifferd Arcadis
Mayor Kirk Watson
ACTIVE URBANISM COMMITTEE 24-25
Nick Moulinet Chair
Andy Austin
Rachel Blair
Adrienne Brown
Kevin Brown
Janis Daemmrich
Michael Girard
Heather Hart Potts
Albi Hasku
Dan Jefferson
Ashley Kegley-Whitehead
Martin Nembhard
Lindsay Palmer
BUILT ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE 24-25
Jim Susman Chair
Elysse Delia Alvarado
Meredith Bossin
Julio Carillo, AICP, LEED AP ND
Jerry Frey
Tyler Grooms
Charles Heimsath
Will Jenkins
David Kahn
Adrianne Kartachak
Patrick McDonnell
Nikelle Meade
Stephen Mery
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 24-25
Whitney Knight Chair
Kevin Brown Vice Chair
Xavier Peña Secretary
FINANCE
Joshua Garza Chair
Bob Barnes
SaulPaul
Xavier Peña
Marissa Rivera
Eric Schultz
Rebecca Senchak
Sania Shifferd
Charles Peveto
Chris Randazzo
John Rigdon
Brad Stein
Aaron Vollmer
Jen Weaver
Joshua Garza Treasurer
Jeff Howard Past Chair*
Dewitt Peart President + CEO*
Davon Barbour President + CEO
COMMITTEE 24-25
Janis Daemmrich
Larry Graham
Tyler Grooms
SaulPaul
* = Ex-Officio
GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE 24-25
Kevin Brown Chair
Jeff Howard
Whitney Knight
Nikelle Meade
Steve Scheibal
MOBILITY COMMITTEE 24-25
Jeff Howard Chair
David Bodenman
Sam Ergina
Megan Frey
Sean Garretson
Seth Johnston
Lela Lerner
Kimberly Levinson
Bill McCamley
Michael McGlashan
Paul Sarahan
Sania Shifferd
Julia Taylor
Mark Terry
Steve Scheibal
Tim Simon
Lonny Stern
Tim Sullivan
Mike Trimble
Dianne Wanyama
PUBLIC SPACE EXPERIENCE COMMITTEE 24-25
Sheryl Sculley Chair
Linda Atkins
Bob Barnes
Bill Fielding
Joshua Garza
Larry Graham
Nate Hardesty
Perry Horton
Richard Paddock
Jo Kathryn Quinn
RESEARCH TASK FORCE
Christine Cramer Visit Austin
Charles Heimsath Capitol Market Research
Aaron Jenkins City of Austin
Israel Linares CoStar
Matt Patton AngelouEconomics
Chris Ramser Opportunity Austin
Ryan Robinson Austin Transit Partnership
Kirby Roundtree
Joel Sher
Marcus Snow
Anne Swift
Mark Terry
Taylor Smith Austin Board of Realtors
Sam Tenenbaum Cushman & Wakefield
Lila Valencia City of Austin
DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE PAST BOARD CHAIRS
John A. Barclay III
Bobbie Barker
David Bodenman
Nancy Burns
Kent Collins
C. Wade Cooper
Jerry Frey
Robert Gaston
Larry Graham
Michael Kennedy
Mike Laosa
Carol Polumbo
Pamela Power
John Rosato
DOWNTOWN AUSTIN ALLIANCE STAFF
Davon Barbour President + CEO
Amanda Baez Activation Coordinator
Melissa Barry, AICP Chief Program Officer
Radhika Bipin Urban Design Coordinator
Raven Birk Social Media + Member Outreach Manager
Bill Brice Senior Vice President, Investor Relations
Samia Burns Chief Financial Officer
Amalia Carmona, AIA Director of Urban Design
SPECIAL THANKS
Meredith Reshoft Graphic Designer & Creative Director, The Killswitch Collective
Amy Chambless Office Manager + Employee Experience
Brandon Fahy Director of Downtown Experience
Matt Geske Vice President, Public Affairs
Luke Goebel Economic Development Research Manager
Leta Harrison Project Manager
Noah Kligerman Director of Accounting
Olivia Larson Chief of Staff
Joel Sher
Beverly Silas
Tom Stacy Jeff Trigger
Jennifer Wiebrand
Will Wynn
Ashley Rose Marino, M.S. Brand + Marketing Manager
Raasin McIntosh Vice President, Active Urbanism
Jenell Moffett, MBA Chief Impact Officer
Angela Navarro Events + PR Manager
Vanessa Olson Vice President, Communication + Marketing
Hannah Rangel Vice President, Built Environment
Emily Risinger, SITES AP Director of Planning + Urban Design
Prisma Austin Printer
Erica Hess Writer, Plume
