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About Downtown Columbus, Inc.

Columbus Commons is managed and programmed by Downtown Columbus, Inc.
The Peninsula Development in Downtown Columbus

Leading Change in Downtown Columbus

Downtown Columbus, Inc. (DCI) is a private nonprofit organization whose mission is to lead city-changing projects and collaborations that improve the connectivity, livability and inclusivity of the Downtown Columbus experience.

Formerly known as the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation (CDDC) and Capitol South, Downtown Columbus, Inc. drives development and progress of the Downtown Columbus Strategic Plan, working collaboratively across sectors toward the vision for Downtown Columbus to become a neighborhood of connected, people-first urban districts that can be enjoyed by all. 

A Track Record of Successful Transformation

For more than two decades, Downtown Columbus, Inc., has been leading transformational change in the heart of Columbus bringing an influx of residents and investment, all guided by the community through Downtown Strategic Plans.  

The 2010 Downtown Strategic plan emphasized projects, creating greenspaces like Columbus Commons, the Scioto Mile and Dorrian Green, along with cultural amenities such as the National Veterans Memorial and Museum and American Museum of Natural History at COSI, to catalyze new neighborhoods like RiverSouth and The Peninsula.  

The momentum continues

In the 2022 Downtown Strategic Plan, the community made the priority clear: people. In 2023 Downtown Columbus, Inc. began immediately delivering what residents wanted.

Our impact

In 2023, Downtown Columbus, Inc. achieved significant milestones, showcasing our commitment to enriching and enhancing the vibrant fabric of our community.

By the numbers:

  • Planned and executed more than 160 free events at Columbus Commons, and collaborated with external partners to activate the park for over 200 diverse gatherings. 
  • Opened Topiary Park Crossing, introducing 98 new workforce housing units to Downtown Columbus, fostering a more inclusive and accessible living environment. 
  • Celebrated the Grand Opening of The Peninsula Phase 1, including 329 new residential units, 235,000 SF of office, and a 198-room boutique hotel. 
  • Distributed over $116,000 directly to Downtown restaurants through the LunchBucks program, bolstering local businesses and culinary experiences. 
  • Implemented more than 50 free and discounted events and activations along the Downtown Riverfront, fostering cultural engagement and community cohesion. 
  • Hosted 11 local artists and groups to perform in the Gay Street District on 23 days, amplifying artistic expression and cultural vibrancy. 
  • Worked with six local artists to create temporary public art installations, transforming our urban landscape into a canvas of creativity and imagination. 
  • Facilitated the design, manufacture, installation, and maintenance of a new parklet at the intersection of Gay and High Streets, complementing the iconic Current sculpture during its display. 
  • Welcomed over 100,000 individuals to Downtown Columbus on December 2 for a collection of free events produced by Downtown Columbus, Inc., seamlessly complementing other festivities hosted by partners.
 

These accomplishments reflect our unwavering dedication to fostering a dynamic, inclusive, and thriving Downtown Columbus for all. There’s more in store for Downtown Columbus so check back often or follow along on social media for the latest developments. 

The Peninsula Grand Opening | Sept 14, 2023
Topiary Park Crossing Grand Opening | Oct 12, 2023