09/30/2026
CBS Boston’s Lisa Hughes takes a closer look at Downtown Boston’s growth, featuring DBA President Michael Nichols and the people helping shape the neighborhood’s future.
The story connects new housing, major employers, and independent businesses to a bigger shift in how people experience Downtown: as a neighborhood where their workday, daily routines, and evening plans all come together.
“Our organization started focusing on who should be in downtown Boston in the future, and what has led to is more residences, more thoughtful retail,” Nichols told CBS.
That growth is showing up on the streets. According to DBA data cited in the report, Downtown pedestrian traffic increased 10% from July 2025 to July 2026, with World Cup activity helping drive the increase. The focus now is on carrying that momentum forward by supporting small businesses.
South Station Tower is also bringing new residents and employers into the neighborhood. More than 72% of its commercial space is signed under lease, and JPMorgan Chase alone is expected to bring 1,000 employees working on-site five days a week, according to Hines’ Sarah Hawkins.
For local businesses, those daily routines matter. More neighbors and workers mean more opportunities to build a regular customer base, from morning coffee and lunch to shopping and dinner.
“They’re living here and they’re walking to work. Walking to restaurants. They’re meeting friends after work,” said Manuel Davis of the Ritz-Carlton at South Station Tower.
It’s a picture of Downtown’s future that puts people at the center, with homes, workplaces, businesses, and public spaces contributing to a neighborhood that stays active throughout the week.
Swipe for highlights and read the full CBS Boston story at the link in our bio.
