Dear Downtown Austin Community,
After a decade of serving as President and CEO of the Downtown Austin Alliance, the time for my retirement has come. It feels especially appropriate, in a year when several transformative projects are finally breaking ground, to pass the torch to a new generation of leadership for downtown Austin.
Over the past decade, downtown Austin has transformed from a “little big city” into a big-city urban center, with the Downtown Alliance as its steward and champion through challenge and triumph.
I am proud of everything we have accomplished together and want to take a moment to reflect on key achievements that define this chapter in the history of Austin:
- The assessed value of the downtown Public Improvement District has risen from $3.5 billion to $16 billion— representing a boom in construction jobs and significant revenue to help fund vital community services.
- Developing a comprehensive Vision for Downtown to guide through the transformation of our city’s core and foster long-term growth while preserving the unique spirit of Austin.
- Working alongside many of you in planning infrastructure projects to ensure Austin continues to grow in a sustainable, forward-thinking manner, including I-35, Project Connect, Waterloo Greenway and a new Convention Center.
- Partnering to create and program several beautiful green spaces, including Republic Square and Old Bakery & Emporium, that are now destinations for connection, relaxation, and community.
- Championing a more inclusive and welcoming downtown for all through relaunching the Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation, launching the Downtown Space Activation Program (DASA) and holding events such as Downtown Holiday Stroll, Dia de los Muertos celebrations, and other free community programs.
- Launching the State of Downtown report and Future of Downtown event to provide a comprehensive overview of the economic, social, and cultural health of downtown Austin.
- Working through innovative solutions and partnerships to address homelessness in downtown Austin, and actively supporting initiatives like The Terrace at Oak Springs, Rathgeber Center, and Community First! Village, leveraging contributions through matching gifts.
Our collective efforts have led to invaluable coalitions that have addressed critical issues in land use, mobility, public safety, homelessness, parks, arts, and culture.
None of it would have been possible without the dedication of our incredible team—our Board of Directors, professional staff, and 90 downtown Ambassadors who are the face of downtown Austin every day. Together, we’ve created the vibe, vitality, and value that make downtown Austin the dynamic and thriving heart of this great city.
I am excited to see what the future holds for downtown Austin, and I have every confidence the next chapter will be even more remarkable. It has been an honor to serve as your CEO, and I will always remain a proud advocate for downtown Austin.
Dewitt “De” Peart
President & CEO
Downtown Austin Alliance
