The Role of Downtown Organizations in Economic Growth

In this episode of the Capstone Conversation, host Jared Asch discusses the importance of downtowns in economic development and community identity. Guests Chloe Ship, Chair of the California Downtown Association, and Kathy Hemingway, Membership Chair of the Association and Executive Director of the Walnut Creek Downtown Association, share their backgrounds and delve into the functions of downtown organizations. They explain different types of improvement districts (business improvement districts, property-based improvement districts, and community benefit districts) and their roles in providing services and advocating for local businesses. The conversation explores the challenges and successes of downtown revitalization, the shift towards outdoor dining, the impact of large-scale events, and emerging retail trends following the COVID-19 pandemic. The script also highlights advocacy work done by the California Downtown Association and the importance of legislative support for downtown revitalization. Finally, the discussion explores how small business owners can get started in downtown areas and the resources available to them.