Why Austin’s growth doesn’t have to leave anyone behind

Davon Barbour

President and CEO of the Downtown Austin Alliance

Watch the Full Episode

Austin is growing fast—but growth alone isn’t success. In this episode of Changing Austin, Davon Barbour, president and CEOof the Downtown Austin Alliance, shares how the city can expand without displacing the people and businesses that give it heart.

Release date: July 2025

Guest: Davon Barbour, President and CEO of the Downtown Austin Alliance

Duration: ~25 minutes

Sponsor: Amplify Credit Union

Timecodes:

04:58

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Austin’s growth is both the envy and the fear of other major cities

14:58

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Why inclusive economic development is key to a thriving city

19:45

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How local businesses are adjusting to a changing downtown

What is the Downtown Austin Alliance?

The Downtown Austin Alliance leads, partners and advocates on projects that keep downtown safe, clean and welcoming for residents, workers and visitors. It supports long-term economic growth through public space management, community engagement and direct services that shape amore vibrant and inclusive city center.

Founded: 1993

Location: 515 Congress Ave, Suite 2150

Industry: Nonprofit

Core Values: Vision, trust, passion, collaboration, impact, inclusivity (see here)

Ownership: 501(c)(4)

Website: downtownaustin.com

Top quotes from Davon Barbour

With experience in civic leadership and nonprofit work, Barbour explains how cities can plan for growth that is intentional and equitable. From supporting local businesses through construction to rethinking how we address homelessness, he outlines what it takes to build a downtown that works for everyone.

Davon Barbour

President and CEO of the Downtown Austin Alliance

It’s not a good situation for a community where no one wants to open a business.

Construction mitigation is going to be important to sustaining our small businesses going forward.

It’s important that when wecome out of all this disruption, everyone’s proud of what’s been executed.

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