Who We Are

Downtown Forward is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization governed by a diverse Board of Directors representing residents, businesses, developers, civic leaders, and community advocates. We are funded through private, tax-deductible contributions and serve the full footprint of Downtown and Downtown West (Mississippi River to Jefferson, Chouteau to Cole).

Our Executive Director, Matt O’Leary, leads the organization with deep experience in real estate development, public safety strategy, public policy, and community advocacy—along with many years as a Downtown resident.

Why We Exist

Despite years of work by many passionate stakeholders, Downtown St. Louis continues to face systemic challenges. These challenges stem from fragmented civic efforts, gaps in service delivery, and historically inconsistent government performance.

Downtown Forward was created to fill those gaps, coordinate solutions, and ensure that Downtown’s needs are addressed with urgency, clarity, and accountability.

Our Approach

We focus on the core structural issues holding Downtown back:

1. Public Safety

Reducing violent crime by targeting root causes such as chronic homelessness, open-air drug activity, late-night disorder, and high-risk cruising.

2. Government Performance

Ensuring City departments deliver timely, effective services by:

• Advocating for enforcement of existing laws
• Changing policies that disadvantage Downtown
• Engaging in City legislative processes
• Securing Downtown’s fair share of state, federal, and regional resources

3. Regional Marketing & Storytelling

Coordinating stakeholders to dramatically increase positive coverage of Downtown across social and traditional media.

4. Advocacy

Representing Downtown’s interests with civic partners, utilities, foundations, corporations, government bodies, and regional agencies.

Together, these efforts build the foundation for long-term vibrancy, investment, and livability.