About
The origin story of the City District is about hope. In 2008, the Great Recession caused many companies and regions to think creatively about how to get things going again. The formation of the City District allows businesses to work together to elevate Downtown Orlando’s presence.
Our community has character. Sure, we all know the famous street mice, but here in the heart of our city, it’s what makes us a special community. Our people are warm, friendly and ready to brighten your day. And the City District helps shine a light on all there is to do in these unique regions of Downtown Orlando.
With the support of local merchants, the City District has continued to grow by becoming a member of Main Street America. Our mission is to bring people together to build better businesses, be good neighbors, and strengthen the community as a whole.
As an accredited Main Street America™ program, City District is a recognized leader among the national network of more than 1,200 neighborhoods and communities that share a commitment to creating high-quality places and building stronger communities through community-based economic development and preservation.
All Main Street America™ accredited programs adhere to a set of National Accreditation Performance Standards as outlined by Main Street America. By meeting these standards, we provide you, our neighbors, with an enriched community.
Mission
City District is a nationally accredited Orlando Main Streets not-for-profit 501(C)(6) organization that promotes and advocates for the stakeholders and businesses within the historic core and urbanized downtown Orlando corridor. The District serves as a policy influencer and a vehicle for business and community enhancement. Economic stability is supported through event programming and heightened community marketing promotions.
Vision
Located in the heart of downtown Orlando, City District welcomes you into a sea of skylines with tucked away historic treasures. We are the intersection of urban living, business, nightlife, dining, arts and entertainment—where the rhythm of the workday blends into the beat of a vibrant nightlife. Visitors and residents alike spill out to our street cafes, immerse themselves in the arts and explore Orlando’s walkable green spaces on their way to neighboring shops.
Partnerships
The City District is fortunate to partner with brands across our community. These brands are investing in the Downtown District and the betterment of our community.
Board Members
Despina McLaughlin (P)
Orange County Government
Frank Vertolli
Net Conversion
Ryan Davis
Harry Buffalo / Stand Up Productions
Jose Lightner
City2Nite
Kirk Wingerson
Orlando Venues
Mitchell Ruiz
Barnes Supply
Graham Jarrett
Orlando Weekly
Sara Reynolds
Orlando Economic Partnership
Melyssa Marshall
Creative City Project
Justin Eason
DDB / CRA
Jorge Becerra
Colombian Consulate
Delaina Baker
Out Loud Social
Paul Kline
Sunday Funday Cleanups
Tommy Cardinal
Community Paper
Barbara Hartley
Downtown Arts District
Marti Ruiz
Innocom Agency
Jill Vaughan
Downtown Orlando Partnership
Mary Stewart
City of Orlando
Doug Metzger
City of Orlando
Connor O’Toole
Vestal & Wiler, CPAs
Carmen Rasnick
Orange County Government
Staff
Nikki Aviles
Downtown Executive Director
