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Downtown DSM Foot Traffic Increases In Most Recent Quarter

September 13, 2023

GREATER DES MOINES, IA (Sept. 13, 2023) – The Greater Des Moines Partnership has released its Downtown DSM Quarterly Report for the third 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 foot traffic is at nearly 85% of pre-pandemic levels and nearly 12% over 2022 levels.  
    • Workday foot traffic is up an average of nearly 36% year-over-year from the beginning of the year through August compared to 2022. This includes an average of nearly 38% growth on core days of Tuesday – Thursday. 
  • Downtown economic development activity included four projects that led to $850,000 in capital investment reported in the second quarter. Projects that were announced in the most recent quarter included Iowa State University’s Ivy College of Business, Security Benefit, Cattlemen’s Heritage and the Algae Biomass Organization. 
  • Major events attracted hundreds of thousands of people Downtown. The World Food & Music Festival presented by Veridian Credit Union attracted a record-number 105,000+ attendees and the Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health – Des Moines attracted more than 345,000 visitors, making the season-to-date total 600,000+ attendees. 

“Downtown DSM has a healthy buzz that has resulted in more people working and visiting,” said Renae Mauk, Vice President of Downtown Development at The Partnership. “Downtown’s world-class festivals and events were showcased in recent months, and companies continue to invest in economic development projects.” 

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 24 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.