The discussion centered on the evolving dynamics of downtown areas post-pandemic, informed by Gensler’s “City Pulse” initiative, which assessed the impact on 92 different CBDs across 23 cities, presented by Sofia Song, Global Cities Lead for Gensler. 

Key global findings from the study revealed that three-quarters of respondents believe their downtowns offer a great experience, with Charlotte ranking higher at 78% satisfaction than other cities like Atlanta. Interestingly, work was not the primary driver for people visiting downtown areas—shopping took precedence. However, a concerning 64% felt that safety had deteriorated over the past year, with Nashville reporting a lower sense of safety compared to Charlotte. Affordability issues were also highlighted, especially in Raleigh, where 70% saw it as a significant challenge. 

Families with young children under six reported the best CBD experiences, in contrast to individuals alone or with pets. For employees, 82% felt downtowns were great places to work, although Raleigh lagged behind Charlotte in this regard. Hybrid workers, despite the flexibility to work remotely, still frequented CBDs, seeking more recreation, shopping, cultural, and entertainment options. 

A personal touch was noted as crucial, with local visitors presenting the biggest opportunity for cities. Despite this, they were the least likely group to agree with the sentiment that downtowns are attractive. The session underscored that people are most content in CBDs that provide fun, discovery, attractiveness, work opportunities, and chances to meet others. 

Geeti Silwal, AICP, LEED AP BD+C Principal of Perkins & Will’s Urban Design practice in San Francisco discussed several projects exemplifying the session’s themes, such as the Potrero Power Station in San Francisco and the Sacramento Valley Station Plan. These projects integrate considerations for biodiversity and a low-carbon footprint, aiming to be inclusive for all walks of life and to create socially and economically resilient downtown areas. 

Welch Lyles from Asana Partners spoke about the firm’s focus on retail-driven mixed-use developments. With projects in 25 cities and a valuation of $7 billion, Asana Partners is actively planning urban transformations like the Brooklyn & Church in Charlotte, which involves converting office spaces to residential units, and the Foundry Heights development, which adds 380 residential units to the Foundry. 

City of Charlotte’s Assistant City Manager Tracy Dodson highlighted the evolution of districts, such as Charlotte’s South End, which has been developing for over 20 years. She addressed the flight from uptown areas and the challenge of activating office buildings to attract people. Tracy mentioned a $275 million investment in an arena and transportation hub that failed to activate the surrounding plaza, emphasizing the need for intentional redevelopment and place-making in micro-districts. 

In response to changing preferences, panelists discussed the importance of focusing on quality of life and creating microdistricts with aggressive business recruitment strategies. The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst for faster changes in hybrid work and retail leasing. The importance of ground floor flexibility was noted, catering to different audiences with inclusivity in mind. 

Dodson shared strategies for selling Charlotte as a business location, including offering concierge services for businesses relocating and being more aggressive with office incentives. Panelists underscored the necessity of adaptability and flexibility in design while still creating a distinct sense of place. For example, San Francisco maintained its economic base of light industrial activity while allowing for new, relevant businesses above ground level. 

The session concluded with discussions on the most crucial partnerships and collaborations for creating vibrant central lifestyle districts. It was agreed that a collective effort is necessary for recovery, with city governments playing a significant role in incentivizing a diverse business mix to reinvigorate downtown spaces. 

A successful CBD, according to the panel, is a complete neighborhood offering a sense of belonging for all community members, an 18-hour destination with diverse experiences, and an evolved retail environment that fosters a sense of community around business aspects. The conversation highlighted the significance of public-private partnerships, particularly in projects like parks, to ensure open space and vitality in urban cores.