DTLA 2023 SURVEY

Sentiments

Perhaps the most striking example of the shift in sentiment is seen in the following two responses. The first, an expression of affection for Downtown, shows a slight decline for most populations but a positive sentiment overall. When we turn to the future and sense of direction, the change in sentiment is substantial. This indicates that even among those who have a strong affinity for Downtown, there is significant concern that things are not improving.

Challenges

When considering potential reasons for the decline in sentiment about DTLA, a common factor is perceived lack of progress on key challenges. While DTLA commuters stood out in terms of a decline in overall sentiment, there is consensus across the board. Respondents overwhelmingly cited a lack of progress on crime and homelessness.

Safety

As with overall sentiments about Downtown, there is a pronounced difference between those who live and visit Downtown and those who commute to Downtown for work. There are numerous possible factors driving this, ranging from level of personal investment in the community, to the nature of engagement with the area, or contrasts with a home location, but the bottom line is that all of the respondent groups have significant concerns, and all of the groups are critical to Downtown’s future.