The results of an unscientific, online survey conducted by the El Paso Downtown Management District (DMD) indicate that a strong majority of respondents (75%) see Downtown El Paso progressing. The survey, part the of the DMD’s community outreach efforts, asked participants to answer 10 questions pertaining to the current state of the downtown, the future of downtown, and the performance of the DMD.
The survey made available during the month of July was available in both English and Spanish. A total of 647 people took the survey. The respondents represented downtown property owners, downtown businesses, downtown employees, downtown residents, and visitors to the downtown.
In addition to identifying ongoing downtown progress, respondents identified room for improvement and that cleanliness, safety/security and building restoration & construction are top priorities for the future of Downtown El Paso. The DMD received high marks in terms of recognition and performance.
“It is not only important that Downtown El Paso continue its redevelopment, but that we do so in a way that our business owners, property owners and greater community can appreciate, enjoy and celebrate,” said DMD Executive Director Joe Gudenrath. “This survey is a part of our efforts to engage the El Paso community. We appreciate the strong levels of participation, and the recognition of the great progress and potential within Downtown El Paso.”
The survey was distributed via local media, social media and direct e-mails in the month of July. Respondents also had the opportunity to register for a chance to win a $100 gift certificate to a downtown restaurant of their choice. Leah Eskew was the lucky winner and received a gift certificate from The Green Ingredient.
Summary of Results:
- Breakdown of Respondents
- Property Owners (2%)
- Business Owners (5%)
- Employees (37%)
- Resident (3%)
- Visitor (53%)*
*Visitors were asked for their primary purpose for visiting. 54% said they visited to attend events.
- Current State of Downtown
- 75% say downtown is progressing
- 68% say their perception of downtown has improved over the past 12 months
- Downtown Is… % who Agreed
- Clean 35%
- Safe 59%
- Welcoming 40%
- Improving 75%
- Family Friendly 42%
- Fun 48%
- Future of Downtown
- Most important elements for the future development of the downtown:
- Cleanliness
- Safety/Security
- Building Restoration & Construction
- Diverse Retail & Shopping Options
- Parking
- Family Friendly
- DMD Performance
- 68% overall familiarity (93% of property owners and 83% of business owners)
- DMD “Grade”
- 62% gave DMD an “A” or “B”
- 24% gave DMD a “C”
- 10% gave DMD a “D” or “F”
- Between 50-52% of those familiar with the DMD supported the expansion of the following services:
- Sanitation
- Pedestrian Amenities
- Advocacy & Planning
Overall the survey revealed a strong interest in downtown and a willingness to share input. Respondents feel downtown continues to improve but there is room for improvement. Additionally; the DMD is recognizable among property/business owners and is viewed as performing well by stakeholders.