In the wake of COVID-19, downtowns across the country are still struggling to recover—grappling with empty office towers, reduced foot traffic, the closing of anchor businesses, and real or perceived increases in crime. As work and social habits shift, cities are urgently rethinking how to revitalize their urban cores. While government and community leaders search for solutions, one powerful, accessible tool is often overlooked: art.

The arts are widely recognized as a driver of tourism, attracting visitors year-round with unique cultural experiences. Museums, theaters, galleries, and public art not only define a city’s identity—they also generate significant economic activity through spending on lodging, dining, and local shops. Nearly 30 million US travelers annually extend their trips specifically for arts and culture experiences.

But the impact of art goes far beyond tourism. Murals, sculptures, interactive installations, and pop-up performances can quickly transform public spaces into vibrant, everyday destinations. These visual cues signal life and activity, drawing people back into the urban environment. A national study by Americans for the Arts found that 70% of Americans believe public art makes their community more vibrant, and 60% say it improves their area’s image and identity. Increased pedestrian presence, in turn, supports small businesses. According to the Knight Foundation, residents of communities with strong arts and cultural amenities are significantly more likely to shop and dine locally.

In Pittsburgh, we’re already seeing this in action. The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership has embraced the arts through murals, storefront pop-ups, window installations, and event-based programs that reimagine underused spaces. These activations are turning quiet corners into places of engagement, creativity, and commerce. A proposed residential conversion downtown even includes affordable housing for artists—a proven strategy to seed long-term cultural and economic vitality, as explored in Patrick Fisher’s essay in this issue.

When artists are commissioned to activate storefronts or vacant lots, the results go beyond aesthetics. These projects stitch together the urban fabric, increase foot traffic, deter vandalism, and contribute to a sense of safety. This echoes urbanist Jane Jacobs’ “eyes on the street” and Sophie Aiyer’s “Busy Streets” theory—both of which demonstrate how active, art-filled spaces can reduce crime and improve public perception.

In short, embedding art into downtown recovery isn’t just about beautification. It’s about creating economic resilience, social connection, and emotional resonance. In this new urban era, art isn't a bonus—it’s essential infrastructure.