A- A+

Downtown DSM Finishes Strong In 2023

December 14, 2023

GREATER DES MOINES, IA (Dec.14, 2023) – The Greater Des Moines Partnership has released its Downtown DSM Quarterly Report for the fourth quarter of 2023. The report details foot traffic statistics, media and public relations metrics, headlines and more related to Downtown Des Moines (DSM). 

Key findings include: 

  • Downtown DSM foot traffic in 2023 is up more than 8% year-over-year through Nov. 30, and is at 84% of pre-pandemic levels.  
  • Downtown workday foot traffic is up more than 30% year-over year. 
  • Downtown economic development activity included two projects, Pitchly and Tumbleweed. This has led to $1 million in capital investment reported between September – November. Other economic development projects that moved forward included OpenLoop Health renaming their Downtown DSM headquarters, Maverik opening regional headquarters in the Nationwide building and the Des Moines International Airport breaking ground on its new terminal. 
  • The Partnership hosted major events that attracted thousands of people to Downtown DSM. The Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health – Des Moines and the Downtown Winter Farmers’ Market attracted over 215,000 people overall to Downtown DSM September to November.  

“The vibrant atmosphere in Downtown DSM has led to increased engagement from workers, residents and visitors,” said Renae Mauk, Vice President of Downtown Development at The Partnership. “Recent holiday events and the bustling Downtown Farmers' Market and Winter Market have highlighted the city’s lively spirit, while ongoing economic development projects see continual investment from the business community.” 

View the full report here. 

About the Greater Des Moines Partnership

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,500 Regional Business Members and more than 400 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.  

About Downtown, DSM, Inc.  

Downtown DSM, Inc. is part of the Greater Des Moines Partnership and is dedicated to ensuring the continued growth of Downtown Des Moines (DSM). A strong region needs a strong Downtown. Downtown DSM, Inc. leads efforts to drive development, placemaking and events in Downtown DSM. It promotes a strong Downtown through integration of retail, restaurants, businesses, housing, events and placemaking.