Why Downtown

The impact and benefits of a strong center city

Downtown areas across the United States play a vital role in the economic, social, cultural, and historical aspects of a community. They serve as a nexus between residents, employers, transportation, culture, urban planning, and tourism and are often seen as the heart and soul of a city.  

Downtown Columbus is no exception. 

Why Downtown Matters

  • A strong downtown is critical for a successful region. Downtown Columbus is at the center of one of the Columbus Region, one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the U.S.  

  • Downtown is a concentrated center of employment and economic opportunity, as well as iconic landmarks, attractions and unique districts.

  • Downtown is the ultimate demonstration of the value of density, diversity and the power of connection. Home to living, working, playing and learning, downtowns are leading economic drivers for cities and regions. 

Downtown’s Impact 

  • Downtown Columbus offers a critical impression to visitors, prospective residents and businesses. Their Downtown experiences affect how the people think of the entire Columbus Region, and how it is viewed around the world. 

  • Downtown funds services that are critical to the quality of life across our entire city. Ninety percent of income tax collected Downtown is used to fund essential services, including police and fire protection, recreation centers and trash pickup in neighborhoods beyond Downtown Columbus.

 

  • Downtown Columbus is a barometer of Columbus’ overall vitality, identity and quality of life, and the success of Downtown will positively impact the areas that surround it.  

Downtown Strategic Plan

Discover what's in store for the future of Downtown Columbus and the latest plan projects and progress.
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