Spend Time Getting to Know + Love Downtown DSM

The Downtown Board Member spotlight allows Downtown Board Members to introduce themselves to their residents and customers while also showcasing their support and dedication to the region and our small business owners. Each member would have a chance to create a blog centered around attractions, dining and events that they enjoy and give them a moment to be recognized for the work that they put into the development of Downtown Des Moines (DSM).

Name, Title + Organization: Becky Gibson, Iowa Commercial Banking Leader, Wells Fargo

Becky Gibson Q+A

What specific role do you have that supports Downtown Des Moines (DSM)?

I am on the Downtown Development Board.

How long have you been a part of the Downtown DSM Board?

6 months

What are your favorite Downtown DSM attractions (Botanical Garden, Science Center, Sculpture Park, etc.) and why?

I love so many Downtown DSM attractions. My current favorite is watching the athletes at the Lauridsen Skatepark! My husband and I have gone downtown several weekend days with the ultimate goal of having brunch at The Breakfast Club. Prior to brunch though, we always start off with a long walk along and across the river on the beautiful Iowa Women of Achievement bridge. We always make a point to stop at the skatepark to watch in awe and amazement all the talented skaters and bicycle riders!

What are some of your favorite Downtown DSM restaurants?

My favorite restaurants are Alba, Fresko, Proof and Lucca.

What are some of your favorite small businesses in Downtown DSM?

Raygun and Kitchen Collage are two of my favorites.

What are some of your favorite Downtown DSM events (Des Moines Arts Festival®, World Food and Music Festival, DSM Book Festival, etc.)?

The Des Moines Arts Festival®.

What is your favorite Downtown DSM moment?

I have many great memories downtown but a few of my favorites are taking my kids to the Science Center of Iowa, attending the Downtown Farmers’ Market, enjoying Des Moines Civic Center season tickets preceded by dinner downtown with our good friends and participating in the Color Run as a family.

What are some new Downtown DSM developments that make you excited?

The Lauridsen Skatepark.

How do you think that others can support the development of the Downtown DSM area?

Spend time in our great city, browse the great shops, eat at the fabulous restaurants, stroll through the sculpture and check out the skatepark!

Recently ranked a top five metro for number of economic development projects among metros with a population of 200,000 to 1 million, growth continues in and around Downtown Des Moines (DSM) in part thanks to unique public-private partnerships that allow community leaders to work together to invest in, grow and improve the city center. Learn more about other recent development projects in Downtown DSM.